The Joseph S. Rumbaugh
Historical Oration Contest 2009
The Fairfax Resolves Chapter winning oration for 2009 was presented to Matthew (Matt) Retterer, a sophomore at Bishop Denis J. O’Connell High School. Mr. Retterer’s speech discussed how Nathan Hale, an officer in the Continental Army, volunteered for one of the first ever intelligence gathering missions and how the methods Hale developed still influence intelligence activities today.
Nathan Cvrk also participated in this year’s contest. Both are students in Ms. Mary Lou Wentzel’s English class at BishopO’Connell High School. Ms. Wentzel was the recipient of the Fairfax Resolves' Teacher of the Year award in 2008 and has been a supporter of the Oration Contest since 1992.
Mr. Retterer’s received a $50 check for his winning oration and will be traveling to Richmond to represent the Fairfax Resolves in the State Oration Contest. Good luck Mr. Retterer!
Matthew Retterer recieves his certificate from Second Vice President John “Jack” Sweeney.
Runner up Nathan Cvrk recieves his certificate from Second Vice President John “Jack” Sweeney.
Oration Contest Participants picured with members of the Fairfax Resolves.
Update!
VASSAR Oration Contest
Matthew went to the VASSAR Annual Meeting to compete in the state level contest. He placed first in the state, earning an additional $300, and will represent Virginia at the SAR Annual Congress in Atlanta this summer. Good luck Matthew!
Matthew Retterer (second from right) pictured with the other Oration Contest participants and the State Oration Chairman.
(Photo courtesy of Phil Williams)