American Legion holds second district oratorical contest
CELINA — The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. High school students under age 20 are eligible. Competition begins at the post level and advances to a state competition. Legion department representatives certify one winner per state to the national contest, where department winners compete against each other in two speaking rounds. The contest caps off with a final round that decides the three top finishers. The 2nd District Contest was held at the Tri Star Career Compact Complex in Mercer County on Feb. 21. The event was opened at 1:30 p.m. by District Oratorical Chairman John McJunkin. He explained the contest rules, that the students would give a prepared eight to ten minute oration referring to the Constitution, followed by a three to five minute speech on a Constitutional amendment. The students competing were, Liberty Menke, a senior at New
Knoxville High School and Tyler Rowen, a freshman at Parkway High School. Both students were very prepared and knowledgeable, delivered their orations very good before three contest judges and everyone in the room.
The judges were Ray Kramer of Celina, Greg Myers of Wapakoneta and George Moore of Celina.
Menke was announced as the winner. She will advance to the state contest that will be held on March 7.
McJunkin thanked all present who helped with the contest.
Any students interested in this program, please contact John McJunkin at johnmcj3@ gmail.com.