The American Legion Oratorical competition allows high school students to argue different aspects of the United States Constitution while competing for scholarships. 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.

One of Utah’s own, Simon Parnell of Davis High School, will participate in the American Legion Oratorical Contest at the National level. Having won at the John W. Sheets Post 27 – Farmington, District II, and Department (Utah State) levels, Parnell will compete with the other winners from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, District of Columbia, and France. In 2024, Parnell also won at the District, Region, and State levels before participating in the national competition.

The 2025 National Finals will be May 16-18 in Hillsdale, Michigan at Hillsdale College. Quarter-final and Semi-final contests are scheduled for Saturday, May 17; finals are scheduled for Sunday, May 18. A banquet honoring all contestants will be Sunday afternoon, following the national championship contest.

Young orators earn some of the most generous college scholarships available to high school students. Over $203,500 in scholarships can be awarded each year. The overall national contest winner gets a $25,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $22,500, and third gets $20,000. Each department (state) winner who is certified into and participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $2,000 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $2,000 scholarship. The American Legion’s National Organization awards the scholarships, which can be used at any college or university in the United States.

Parnell was introduced to debate when he was 12 and has been involved since. He said, “Debate encourages problem solving and also helps one identify their own strengths and weaknesses to be able to defend your ideas in a respectful manner.” Unlike a family dinner bash, this particular type of debate is structured and well organized. Parnell also loves running, travel and theater; he hopes to pursue a career in diplomacy.

For more details on this and other Legion programs, go to The American Legion website at Legion.org.