The Junior Oratorical Contest was begun in 2005. That year, the contest was the first one sponsored by Post 281, and the first one of its kind in the state. The purpose of this new contest is to develop knowledge and understanding of the Constitution of the United States, and to promote interest in the high school oratorical contest. Contest winners each received a U.S. Savings Bond.

The purpose of the 63rd High School Oratorical Contest, sponsored by The American Legion as a National Americanism Activity, is to develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Constitution of the United States. Other objectives to be gained are those of leadership, the abiliy to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and preparation for the acceptance of the duties and responsibilities, the rights and privileges, of American citizenship.