West Potomac High School junior Peter Reistad, center, is congratulated by American Legion Post 24 Commander Henry Dorton on taking first place in the Legion’s Oratorical contest Jan. 9 in Old Town as contest coordinator Patrick Hawley applauds. Reistad advances to the District 17 competition Jan. 23 in Fairfax.
Held at Post 24 in Old Town, Reistad’s presentation topic described the importance of the Judicial Branch of the U.S. government as defined within the U.S. Constitution. His second speech, a 3-5 minute assigned topic speech, was on Amendment XXV, Section 4, which provides for the powers of the Presidency to transfer to the Vice-President in the event that the President cannot perform his duties.
First held in 1938, the American Legion Oratorical aims to develop knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. The contest is open to girls and boys in grades 9-12 who each write their own 8–10-minute prepared oration. Contestants memorize and deliver their speech on any aspect of the Constitution in front of an audience of multiple judges, timekeepers and other attendees.
Nationally, more than $203,500 in scholarships are awarded each year with the overall national contest winner receiving a $25,000 scholarship. Each state winner receives a $2,000 scholarship which can be used at any college or university in the United States.
Applications for next year’s Post 24 contest, tentatively scheduled for Jan. 8, 2023, will open in August and early entry is recommended.
Reistad now advances to the American Legion District 17 Contest at Post 177 in Fairfax.
For more information about the Oratorical Speech Contest or other youth programs, contact: VAPost24Oratorical@gmail.com.