American Legion Post 140 Buckhead Sponsors Students in Oratorical Contest
Atlanta students learn to better understand the Constitution
American Legion Post 140 Buckhead has sponsored Atlanta-area students in the Department of Georgia Oratorical Contest for many years. This National contest sponsored by the American Legion encourages students to study and understand better the constitution of the United States.
Veteran Navy officer David Llewellyn, who is a trial lawyer, has managed the Post’s annual Oratorical contest for the past 15 years. Last year Allison Yang, one of the Post’s contestants not only won the state competition, but she placed in the top 20 nationally. Doctor James Jones, a former Army officer and Government teacher at North Atlanta High School, and his wife have helped organize the students the last five years.
“If you want to feel good about the next generation, come watch these contests,” said Oratorical Chair Llewellyn. “These young people really do care, and are very idealistic. It’s very encouraging because these young people really do care about the constitution and the rule of law which is what the Legion cares about. This is a great way for them to learn more, as you have to do a great deal of research to speak on these topics. The contest is difficult, and you have to be good at public speaking if you want to win.”
The contest consists of two parts. For the first part, students must prepare an eight to ten minute oration on any aspect of the constitution with an emphasis on the citizens duties or obligations to the government. For the second part, they must prepare a three to five minute oration on an assigned topic. There are four assigned topics each year and they draw the day of the contest to see which one they will speak on.
The winner from District 5, where Post 140 is located, goes on to the area contest, then that winner goes to the state contest in Macon or Forsyth. The state winner then goes on to the National Contest.
Since 1938, The American Legion’s National Oratorical Contest has helped youth deepen their understanding of the Constitution, develop leadership, and earn scholarships through public speaking. The American Legion’s youth programs help shape the next generation of American leaders by fostering citizenship, character, and a deep respect for our nation’s founding principles. These initiatives strengthen communities and prepare young people for lives of service and leadership.
The next district contest will happen in the Fall, for the Georgia 2027 contest. Students or parents who would like their children to participate may contact David Llewellyn at david@llewellynlawfirm.com.
Congrats to Allison Yang, our 2025 Oratorical Contest entrant this year, who won the Department of Georgia (State) contest on Monday in Forsyth and will represent Georgia at the National competition at Hillsdale College in Michigan. This is a significant accomplishment and honor!
The Department of Georgia had a strong presence at Monday’s 2025 State Oratorical Competition, with Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and Sons of The American Legion proudly represented. Four talented young adults eagerly competed, demonstrating their exceptional knowledge of the U.S. Constitution—one of the four pillars of the American Legion’s programs.
If you ever worry about the future of our nation, fear not—just attend one of these competitions and listen to these incredible young individuals. They are exceptionally well-prepared to honor and defend the U.S. Constitution, giving us all confidence in the next generation of leaders.
Pictured with Post 140 Oratorical Chair David Llewellyn
First place Allison Yang
Second Place Asa Scott
Third Place Mary Reese Harvey
Fourth place Nathan Dsilva
Pictured left to right: DOG Oratorical Chairman, Robert Stites, Allison Yang, DOG SAL Commander Brian Shedd, and DOG senior Vice-Commander Michael Schwartz.