MECHANIC FALLS – Past National and State Commander Bill Rodgers and 3rd District Public Relations Officer Paul R. Bernard are announcing a district meeting to be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, at the Mechanic Falls Post 150, 41 Elm St. The post will hold its oratorical contest at 1 p.m.

The purpose of the American Legion high school oratorical scholarship program, “A Constitutional Speech Contest,” is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States.

Other objectives include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently and the preparation for acceptance of the duties and responsibilities and the rights and privileges of American citizenship.

Other important anniversaries to be remembered in January are: the 35th anniversary of the Vietnam cease fire, Jan. 27, 1973; the 40th anniversary of the Tet Offensive, Jan. 30, 1968; the 53rd anniversary of the Korean War cease fire, Jan. 31, 1955; and the 18th anniversary of the end of the Panama conflict, Jan. 31, 1990.

All Legion officers and members of Posts 10, 22, 31, 66, 111, 135, 150, 153, 158 and 210 are encouraged to attend the district meeting.

Anyone interested in joining the American Legion can download an application at www.maineamericanlegion.com or call 225-3285.