You’re invited to come out and see the Pennsylvania State Oratorical Scholarship Program finals.  The final stage of the program will be held at the beautiful Forum Building in downtown Harrisburg on March 6, 2010.  Admissions free for all those who want to come and watch the best of the best in Pennsylvania. 

The contestants prepare an 8 - 10 minute, memorized oration on some phase of the United States Constitution.  They then give a 3 - 5 minute extemporary orationon one of the four “assigned topics” assigned by National Headquarters.  The contestants don’t use any notes or prompts when giving their oration.

The first place winner wins a $7,500 scholarship, plaque and expense paid trip to the Pennsylvania American Legion State Convention to present his/her winning oration, plus the opportunity to represent Pennsylvania in the National and Regional Contests and receive an additional $1,500 scholarship from the National Organization.  The Second Place Winner receives $5,000 scholarship and plaque.  The third place winner receives $4,000 scholarship and plaque.

View the video below. This is Spencer Harjung, the 2008 winner of the American Legion National Oratorical Contest held in Indianapolis, Indiana.