USS Missouri Memorial Association Announces Student Speech Contest in Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the End of WWII
Posted on 2/25/25.HONOLULU, HI – The USS Missouri Memorial Association launches the “What Can I Do for Peace?” Speech Contest, an educational initiative in partnership with esteemed local educator Shiloh Francis, Hawai‘i’s History Teacher of the Year (2024); and acclaimed author Dorinda Nicholson. This program aims to engage high school students in a profound reflection on the importance of peace, inspired by the historic World War II surrender ceremony aboard the USS Missouri.
The speech contest is open to O‘ahu public, private, and charter school students in grades 9 through 11. The following blurb is the subject prompt:
"At the end of the ceremony to end World War II on September 2, 1945, held aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, Japan, General Douglas MacArthur said, ‘Let us pray that peace be now restored to the world…’ Now, 80 years later, that peace is being tested throughout the world.”
Students are invited to craft and present a three-minute speech responding to “What can I do for peace?” Each student may share what they can and will do for peace and the promotion of peace in their community.
Participants may submit their speeches in recorded formats (MP4 or MOV) between now through April 25. Winning speeches will be featured across USS Missouri’s official media platforms.
Judging & Awards
A panel of judges, including representatives from the USS Missouri Memorial Association and community leaders, will evaluate submissions based on clarity, rhetorical impact, originality, and delivery.
The top three students will be awarded a VIP experience aboard the Mighty Mo in line with the 80th Commemoration events from August 29 to September 3, 2025. Winners will also receive:
- A VIP visit and tour of the USS Missouri for themselves, their sponsoring teacher, and up to eight guests.
- Exclusive invitations to the 80th Commemoration Ceremony as student representatives.
- Featured on the USS Missouri’s social media channels as a Student Peace Ambassador.
- Author signed copy of the book Pearl Harbor Child by Dorinda Nicholson.
- USS Missouri memorabilia and special commemorative materials.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awaits the top student who will be awarded the opportunity to take center stage on September 2, 2025, to deliver their speech during the official 80th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony, honoring the bravery, sacrifice, and legacy of those who served. This prize package also includes 10 VIP tickets to the 80th Anniversary Ceremony.
This initiative strengthens the USS Missouri’s commitment to fostering historical literacy, critical thinking, and civic engagement among students. It offers a unique, place-based learning opportunity that integrates World War II’s history, public speaking, and leadership development, while highlighting the battleship’s enduring role in global peace discussions.
"The ‘What Can I Do for Peace?’ Speech Contest is an opportunity for the next generation to reflect on history and engage in meaningful conversations about peace,” said Michael Carr, President and Chief Executive Officer of the USS Missouri Memorial Association. “We are honored to support students in using their voices to inspire change and contribute to our community.”
How to Participate
Students interested in participating can find more details on submission guidelines and judging criteria by visiting https://ussmissouri.org/education/bring-the-ship-to-you/speech-contest
Please credit this event flyer to the Battleship Missouri Memorial: https://finnpartners.box.com/s/wat8btz0wadux9dlywvqzul02vuzhlvt
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