Two Austin Catholic Elementary School students were among hundreds who created Christmas cards for soldiers overseas and in hospitals. However, the girls did not know they were also participating in a contest.

Emily Toland, grade 2, the daughter of Ann and Nathan Toland, and Grace Einck, grade 3, the daughter of Judy and Rick Einck, have been named winners of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Christmas card contest.

“I am a Gulf War vet,” Rick Einck said. “To see the Marines and Airmen crying to get these … thank you from all the veterans.”

“I am just so proud of her,” said Ann Toland, who knew her daughter had won her grade but couldn’t tell her.

“I had to keep it secret,” she said.

The winners were given $5 and a certificate, and were honored at ACES Tuesday afternoon.

According to Ruth Collette, chairperson of the Austin DAV and DAV of Minnesota, 502 students in Mower County and nearly 200 students in other counties made cards for soldiers overseas and in Veterans Affairs hospitals. Gifts donated from Hy-Vee and Sterling Drug were also sent along with the cards.

One soldier, 1st Sgt. Allen Ryks, originally from Austin, wrote a letter of thanks.

“Any time we get something from the American public it’s truly appreciated, especially when it comes from children,” said Ryks, who joined the Marine Corps 22 years ago.

Other winners include Logan Mathews, kindergarten, Southland Public Schools; Madeline Merten, first grade, Southland; Summer Halsey, fourth grade, Lyle Public Schools; and Laura Kiefer, fifth grade, Southland.

The winning cards now advance to the state competition.

Collette said those winners have also been determined, but won’t be announced until the state DAV convention April 29-May 1. She did reveal that the first place winner from this area.