American Legion Post 296 in Vass announces speech contest for high school students

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.

Scholarships are awarded to the three finalists. First place receives $25,000, second gets $22,500, and third takes $20,000. Each individual state winner certified into and participating in the first round of the national contest receives a $2,000 scholarship. Each first-round winner who advances but does not qualify for the finals receives an additional $2,000 scholarship.

 Oratorical scholarship recipients will be eligible to receive their scholarships upon enrollment to an accredited trade school, college, or university within the United States. All scholarship claims are a two- party check: to the student AND the school.

Scholarship recipients must utilize the total award within eight (8) years, excluding active military duty or religious mission. Additionally, the winner of the National Oratorical Contest will travel to join the Youth Champion Delegation of The American Legion that is honored each August at the annual National Convention of The American Legion.

https://www.nclegion.org/oratorical-contest

Contact American Legion Post 296 Commander Rora Kellis at rmkellis@live.com to learn the next steps in your leadership path, beginning with a speech on the U.S. Constitution.

Aug. 15, 2026

Provided.

Subscribe to Sandhills News and support this conservative journalism with advertising.

Submit news tips, events and interview requests to editor@sandhills.news.

Sandhills News is plain-English local government reporting that explains how decisions affect your land, taxes, schools and rights.