A Putnam County student headed to the state’s American Legion Oratorical contest Saturday for the first time in 12 years.
Cookeville High School Senior Navada Davis recently took first place at a regional competition. American Legion Post 46 Oratorical Chairman Richard Buford said the contest challenges high school students to develop a deeper understanding of the U.S. Constitution through public speaking.
“He asked me to come to his school to read to me a speech he had written, and it brought tears to my eyes,” Buford said. “It’s about veterans and how veterans are the cornerstone of our democracy for our freedom, not only for our country, but the world.”
Davis will compete against two other students in the state competition this Saturday in Nashville.
“He has done incredible, and every time he’s given his speech, it’s been better,” Buford said. “It’s a real pleasure to hear his passion for our Constitution and for our veterans.”
Buford said beyond competition, the oratorical contest offers long-term benefits for students, including valuable life skills.
“This program offers students skills to speak in front of other people,” Buford said. “And it’s a life skill that will be invaluable for people who choose the public service in our country or wish to advance in politics. So we offer this, and they have a lot of fun as well.”
Buford said that through the contest, the American Legion awards an estimated $250,000 in scholarships to high school students. Buford also said even though a student may not win the contest, universities will offer scholarships to them for the work they put in.
Buford said students in the region can call their local American Legion Post and ask how to sign up for next year.