2024 Oratorical Contest
The purpose of The American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Contest is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Other objectives of the contest include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and the preparation for acceptance of the duties and responsibilities, the rights and privileges of American citizenship.
The Madison County Oratorical Contest was conducted on February 10, 2024. Winners were: Thomas Fleming (1st place $500), Emily Dutton (2nd place $300), Ausjua Wilson (3rd place $200). Other contestants were: Vachan Karcki and Mary Katherine Fleming. Danny Marr served as emcee. From Post 237, Tom Hartley, Brad Mayo, and Jack Lafountain, served as judges, Tom and Thad Paone served as tabulators, and Jerry Phelps served as an escort.
The District 12 contest was conducted on March 2nd at 10 AM at Madison City Hall. Alan Chambers, Division 1 Commander, served as contest emcee. First place was awarded to Thomas Fleming, second place was Vivian Grace Moody, and third place was David Hooker. From Post 237, Jerry and Tanya Phelps served as timekeepers and Jack Lafountain and Tom Paone served as tabulators.
Thomas Fleming won the Division 1 contest on March 16th and will competed in the Department of Alabama Contest on March 30th. Prizes at the department level are $2500, $1500, and $1000 for 1st, 2nd , and 3rd places. The National contest is at Hillsdale College May 17th through May 19th. Prizes at the national level are $25000, $22500, and $20000 for first through third places and $2000 for each certified state winner.
Pictured below are the contestants and parents at the 2024 Department of Alabama Oratorical Contest.
