Speech Writing

Commemorative Speech

Barbara P

Commemorative Speech - Writing Guide, Outline & Examples

commemorative speech

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Ready to explore the world of commemorative speech writing? Don't worry, it's not as tricky as it sounds! 

In this guide, we'll make it super easy for you. We've got all the tips and examples you need to create perfect commemorative speeches for any occasion. Whether it's for your school project, a graduation party, or a touching tribute to someone special, we've got your back. 

Let's jump in and discover the secrets to crafting speeches that leave a lasting impression. 

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  • 1. Commemorative Speech Definition 
  • 2. Commemorative Speech Outline
  • 3. How to Write a Commemorative Speech
  • 4. Types of Commemorative Speeches
  • 5. Commemorative Speech Examples
  • 6. Commemorative Speech Topics

Commemorative Speech Definition 

A commemorative (or ceremonial or epideictic) speech is defined as an address of honor delivered to celebrate or praise the value of a person, group, place, event, idea, or institute. 

This type of speech writing is not just verbal praise or appreciation. It is more of a celebration and acknowledgment.

The Importance of Commemorative Speeches

Commemorative speeches aren't just words thrown together; they serve a significant purpose in various aspects of life.

  • Commemorative speeches honor people, events, and ideas that hold significant value.
  • They help us remember history, culture, and achievements, preserving them for future generations.
  • Commemorative speeches inspire and connect people emotionally, fostering a sense of unity.
  • These speeches offer closure and healing, particularly during funerals or memorials.
  • They provide a platform for celebrating achievements and milestones.
  • Through commemorations, we ensure that important moments in our lives are never forgotten, leaving a lasting legacy.

Commemorative Speech Outline

Here's a simple commemorative speech outline example template: 

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How to Write a Commemorative Speech

Writing a commemorative speech is a special way to pay tribute to an important event or someone's life. Here are some simple steps to help you write one:

Step 1: Start with an Attention-Grabbing Opener

Your speech needs to capture the audience's attention from the very beginning. So start your commemorative speech with a compelling story, a relevant quote, a rhetorical question, or a surprising fact. The goal is to make the audience want to listen.

Step 2: Introduce the Occasion

Clearly state the reason for your speech. Let the audience know what or who you are commemorating and why this is a significant occasion. This sets the stage for your speech's focus.

Step 3: Acknowledge Challenges or Difficulties

If the subject of your commemoration faced any difficulties in their life or in being remembered, this is the place to address those challenges. It adds depth to your speech and shows resilience.

Step 4: Express Gratitude

Thank the audience for their presence and appreciation. Also, acknowledge any individuals or organizations who have contributed to making this commemoration possible.

Step 5: Include Personal Observations

Share personal stories, anecdotes, or observations that connect you to the subject or event. This personal touch makes your speech unique and relatable.

Step 6: Pay Tribute to the Subject & Highlight Their Achievements

This is the heart of your speech. Express your admiration, respect, and appreciation for the person or the significance of the event you're commemorating. Explain why they are deserving of this honor. Dive into the subject's significant accomplishments, qualities, or contributions. Use specific examples or stories to illustrate their impact on others and the world.

Step 7: Connect to the Audience

Relate the subject's life or the event to the audience's experiences and values. Show why this commemoration matters to them and how it can resonate with their lives.

Step 8: Address Why It's Important

Explain the broader importance of this commemoration. Discuss the lasting influence, lessons learned, or the impact the subject or event has had on society, culture, or individuals.

Step 9: Conclude with a Powerful Message

Summarize the significance of the commemoration and leave the audience with a memorable and thought-provoking message. This could be a call to action, a reflection on the subject's legacy, or a meaningful quote.

Step 10: Use Visual Aids (if necessary)

Visual aids like photographs, videos, or props can enhance your speech by providing a visual element to support your words. Use them when appropriate, but ensure they add value.

Types of Commemorative Speeches

Here's a table outlining different types of commemorative speeches:

Commemorative Speech Examples

Here are some famous commemorative speeches by renowned personalities: 

  • Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech
  • Ronald Reagan's Challenger Disaster speech
  • Maya Angelou's eulogy for Coretta Scott King

Commemorative Speech on a Famous Person

Let’s take a look at a short commemorative speech example:

Commemorative Speech Examples PDF

To provide you with tangible insights into commemorative speeches, we've provided free commemorative speech examples in this section. Let’s take a look:

Graduation Ceremony Speech Example

Commemorative Speech Example

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Commemorative Speech Topics

Choosing the right topic is essential for speech writing. Here are some interesting commemorative speech topics, take a look:

  • A tribute to a loving spouse
  • A tribute to caring parents
  • The sacrifice of a teacher 
  • A perfect example of human courage 
  • A human who overcame a challenge 
  • Celebrating Islamic values
  • Praising the women’s rights movement in the United States
  • Respect makes any relationship better
  • Hard work is the only shortcut to success.
  • Teamwork improves the performance of organizations.
  • Leadership is an innate ability.

Writing an inspiring speech can be tricky. But once you know what you have to write and how to structure it, the process becomes easier.

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Barbara P

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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  • Funerals & Memorial Services

How to Write a Commemorative Speech: Examples & Tips

Updated 09/9/2022

Published 11/15/2019

Yvonne Bertovich

Yvonne Bertovich

Contributing writer

Learn how to write a commemorative speech with this step-by-step guide, including examples, topic ideas, and tips.

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In an ideal world, giving a commemorative speech would be simply pulling words straight from your heart and saying them out loud to great aplomb. However, unless you regularly chase the muse of creativity with abandon, there are not many people who can write a perfectly crafted speech without some work.

But there is a way to capture emotion in a moving commemorative speech and also give honor to a subject. A good speech seeks to entertain, engage, and move others. And this statement can also inform your audience with firsthand, personal education about the person or topic you’re honoring.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Step 1: decide on the topic, step 2: do your research, step 3: take notes, step 4: start drafting, step 5: take a break.

  • Step 6: Edit, and Draft Again

Step 7: Finalize It

Step 8: share the “final” aloud, commemorative speech topic ideas, commemorative speech examples.

Whether you’re a confident writer and speaker who needs to brush up or someone could use a bit (or a lot) of help, here is a step-by-step guide to help you write a persuasive commemorative speech of your own.

But even with the best writing and delivery, a mesmerizing commemorative speech can only happen if it comes from the heart. Bring people to their feet with your heart, and keep them engrossed with your words.

Are you hoping to share a story or historical event relevant to a family member or loved one? Or, are you hoping to give a brief biography about a recently deceased loved one? The topic is entirely up to you, and you may already have something in mind.

Maybe you have a few different, but related topics you’d like to weave together. The number of topics you write about doesn’t matter, as long as you can create a cohesive piece in the end. Think about how you can guide your audience to better understand this person or event, for example, if you’re speaking on a death anniversary .

Tip: Jot down words or phrases freely to help yourself brainstorm.

Once you decide upon your topic or topics, do your research. You may not have to visit your local library and peer intently at the microfilms, even if you’re covering something really historical and not well known. 

If you’re planning to write about another family member, such as a grandparent, sit down with someone else close to them. Interview them informally, but take copious notes or record them.

Depending on their level of recall, you may have to ask more than one relative. On the other hand, don’t be afraid to talk to people who may not know as much about the person or event you’re researching. They may say something inspirational or silly, but something that’ll add some whimsy and lightness to your speech.    

There’s always your good friend Google, too. Get creative with your searching and what details you choose to include. You may learn something new about your loved one. 

Tip: Don’t get in your own way. If you’re having a hard time writing about a certain person or topic — change it or take a step back. 

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Isn’t taking notes a way of putting off the drafting process? Isn’t it more writing? Taking notes is considered more writing, yes, but when you sit down to write your first draft, these notes will be your best friend.

Think of it less as writing notes but more so as writing an outline. Chances are, within your notes are some real nuggets of gold that can make your piece truly shine. Without notes, it can be extremely hard to reference anything that is not written down somewhere.

In addition, with your notes organized in an outline (check our commemorative speech templates for inspiration), you can take a deeper look at the flow and structure without having to write again from scratch.

Starting to draft a speech on a blank Word document, or sheet of paper if you’re old school, is much more daunting than if you craft notes or an outline. Identify key points as “subheadings” to give your speech some structure. Notes will also ensure you focus on important facts before going off on a tangent.  

Tip: Try to organize your notes in a way that makes sense to you, either chronologically or in order of importance. 

Breathe. How do you feel? Writing a commemorative speech, much like writing a eulogy , can be an emotional thing to do. If you’re not in a good headspace or a quiet, reliable place to work, your speech will reflect this. Don’t write your speech until you’re ready. 

Once you are ready, open up your notebook or document. If you find yourself unable to start at the very beginning, don’t worry. Start on one section or another and fill in transitions later. You can always rearrange the content of your speech so it makes the most sense. 

Tip: Give yourself deadlines to complete each of these steps, and be conservative if you tend to procrastinate. 

Taking mental (and physical) breaks is an important part of completing any task. If you find yourself on a tight deadline, budget an hour to do something that doesn’t require much thinking. Go out for a meal, walk your dog, or do some laundry if it’s therapeutic for you. 

Walking away from your speech and revisiting it with fresh eyes will not only help you suss out any obvious mistakes or errors but likely reinvigorate you to get back to writing. There’s nothing worse than trying to write something out of frustration, rather than will. 

Tip: Make sure you’re adequately fueled before you attack your speech again. Brew a pot of coffee or have a healthy meal.

Step 6: Edit, Then Draft Again

Once you get back to your draft, make any necessary edits. Read the progress of your draft beginning to end, and then backward.

Does it still make sense? If you constantly read your writing beginning to end, you may get caught up in your words and glaze over plot holes or mistakes. 

Did you find some areas to make changes? Continue tweaking your draft and adding and deleting when necessary. Now that you’re further along in the draft, you can likely tell what areas need more elaboration and what areas are complete. Revisit your brainstorm notes if you have to.

Tip: Writing isn’t always a compounding process. It involves adding and subtracting. Don’t be afraid to delete words or phrases — sometimes less is more. 

You’re nearing the end of the writing process. Read over your draft again. Is there a theme or detail you started with? Try to bring this into the conclusion. Putting a detail from the beginning of your speech in the last line is an impactful way to send your audience off. 

If this sounds too complicated, you can always keep the conclusion simple. Briefly reiterate what the person or topic means to you and why you chose to speak about it. 

Tip: Don’t give complete details in the beginning. Wait till the end to disclose something about the person or topic. For example, “and that’s why…”  

If you don’t have time or feel comfortable enough to practice your speech in front of someone else, at least read your speech out loud to yourself. You can identify words or phrases that are awkward or choppy.

After all, this is a speech. If you are tripping over words, it may be a sign to simplify some of your phrasings or adjust some words.

Consider practicing in front of the mirror, too. Then, if you feel confident enough, read the speech to someone else. Getting some honest feedback will help you better prepare for the live delivery. This is also a good practice if you ever have to speak at a funeral . Although difficult and emotional, familiarizing yourself with the speech will make it easier. 

Tip: Practicing where to pause in your speech is just as important as the spoken portions. Allow your audience to absorb your words, and let yourself breathe. 

Now that you know how to write a commemorative speech, are you still having trouble with step one, i.e. deciding on a topic? Here are a few ideas to get you started, followed by some examples. 

  • A broad look at a relative’s life
  • A relative’s involvement in a historical event, such as a war or movement
  • A relative’s childhood or upbringing
  • How a relative got into their career and details about it 
  • A prominent event from your hometown
  • A “where are they now” story
  • A speech about a relative’s last wishes or dreams
  • About a relative’s marriage or family life
  • About a relative’s relationship with a pet 
  • A firsthand account of your relationship with a relative

If you’re still struggling to get the ball rolling, here are some specific examples of commemorative speeches. No matter what person or topic you decide on, make it your own and feel free to get creative.

“ Grandpa Jack was a lifelong firefighter. To me, it only makes sense that he moved up north to retire, when most people do the opposite. After decades of taking the heat, all he wanted was to feel the cold. For those of you who don’t already know, you’ll never believe how he decided to become a firefighter in the first place. This is his story... ”  

“ On November 20, 1962, our little town changed forever. What was once a tired, somewhat melancholy place, was suddenly bursting with life. The Jones’ family’s decision to open up a ski resort turned it into a winter paradise. As an employee of the Jones family for 25 years, I wanted to share a little bit more about their history and legacy... ” 

“ Why did Terry become a teacher? Some of you may think she was plucked from heaven and put back on earth to do just that. I tend to think so, too. For a woman who started life as an orphan, bouncing around from foster home to foster home, she spent the remainder of her life as a voice for children. She was patient, hilarious, and sharp as a tack. She was my best friend... ”

“ Hank, as you all know him, came to this country in 1940. He fled occupied Poland with his father and his grandmother. His mother was estranged when he was a young boy and was never heard from again. It was suspected that Hank’s missing mother was Jewish. The result? Hank was taken from his classroom in his home country of Lithuania one day to find himself in a concentration camp far away... ”

It’s Not Just About Facts

Writing and delivering a powerful commemorative speech isn’t about the many facts and figures you can spout off to your audience. A good commemorative speech encapsulates your feelings for the person or topic you’re covering.

A person’s life is more than important dates, years, or how much they did at any given point in time. Keep these steps in mind, but don’t forget to enjoy it and speak from your heart.

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Commemorative Speech Writing Guide: Outline & Topics for 2024

commemorative speech

As a professional copywriting journalist, I have witnessed the power of a well-crafted commemorative speech . Whether it’s honoring a loved one, celebrating a significant milestone, or paying tribute to a historical event, a commemorative speech has the ability to evoke emotions and create a memorable moment.

If you’re tasked with writing a commemorative speech , it can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What should you say? How do you ensure your speech leaves a lasting impact on the audience?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

In this article, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to writing a commemorative speech that will leave a lasting impact on your audience. I’ll provide an outline, suggested topics for 2024, famous examples, and tips for delivering your speech with confidence.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to write a powerful commemorative speech.
  • Get inspiration from sample topics and famous examples.
  • Utilize tips for delivering an impactful speech.

What is a Commemorative Speech?

Oh, you want to learn about commemorative speeches? Well, buckle up, my friend, because I’m about to take you on a journey through the ins and outs of this awe-inspiring form of oratory.

First things first, what exactly is a commemorative speech? In its essence, a commemorative speech is a way to honor and remember a person, event, or significant milestone. It’s a chance to reflect on the impact that this person or event has had on our lives, and to celebrate their legacy.

But you know what really sets commemorative speeches apart from other types of speeches? Emotion. That’s right, folks – a good commemorative speech should make you feel things. Whether it’s happiness, sadness, admiration, or inspiration, the goal is to evoke a strong emotional response from the audience.

So, why bother with all this emotional stuff? Well, because emotions are what make us human. They’re what connect us to each other, and to the world around us. And when we’re talking about someone or something that has had a profound impact on our lives, emotions are the natural result.

So, next time you’re tasked with delivering a commemorative speech, remember this: it’s not just about relaying information or making a case. It’s about creating a powerful, emotional connection with your audience, and honoring the subject in a way that truly does justice to their legacy.

Crafting a Memorable Commemorative Speech

Writing a commemorative speech can seem like a daunting task, but fear not! With my expert guidance, you’ll be crafting a memorable address in no time.

First and foremost, thorough research is key. Gather as much information as possible about the person, event, or milestone you’re honoring. This will help you develop a deep understanding of the subject matter and allow you to bring a unique perspective to your speech.

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to structure your speech. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the address. Next, provide some background information about the subject matter, highlighting key moments or achievements.

Personal anecdotes are the heart and soul of a commemorative speech. Use them to connect with your audience on an emotional level and evoke feelings of nostalgia or inspiration. Don’t be afraid to get vulnerable or inject some humor into your speech, as long as it’s appropriate for the occasion.

Reflection is also an important component of a well-crafted commemorative speech. Use this time to put the subject matter into perspective and express gratitude or reverence. Finally, wrap up your speech with a powerful conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Of course, language and storytelling techniques are also critical to the success of a commemorative speech. Use powerful imagery and metaphors to captivate your audience, and vary your sentence structure to maintain their interest.

As you write your speech, remember that authenticity is key. Don’t try to emulate someone else’s style or use language that doesn’t feel natural to you. Your audience will appreciate your honesty and the personal touch you bring to your speech.

Now that you have a better idea of how to write a commemorative speech , it’s time to get started! Remember to stay true to yourself and the subject matter, and you’ll deliver a powerful, memorable address that honors and inspires.

Commemorative Speech Outline

Writing a commemorative speech can seem like a daunting task, but with the right framework, it can be a breeze. Here’s an outline that you can use, customize, and make your own:

Remember, this outline is just a guide. Feel free to add or subtract sections as necessary, and customize each section to fit your needs. The key is to make the speech personal, engaging, and impactful.

Commemorative Speech Outline.

If you’re struggling to come up with your own outline, you can always use this template:

  • Introduction
  • Opening sentence or quote
  • Background information about the occasion or person being honored
  • Storytelling
  • Personal anecdote or story about the subject
  • Relevant details and context to give the story meaning
  • Impact on Society
  • How the subject has changed the world, society, or history
  • Examples of their impact and significance
  • Your personal thoughts, emotions, and reflections on the subject
  • The lessons we can learn from the subject and their legacy
  • A memorable statement that ties together the themes of the speech and leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Whichever outline you choose, remember to have fun and be creative!

Suggested Topics for 2024 Commemorative Speeches

As we approach 2024, it’s important to start thinking about the significant events and individuals that we may want to honor through a commemorative speech. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • The 20th Anniversary of 9/11 : This day will always be remembered as a tragic moment in American history. A commemorative speech could focus on honoring the lives lost and the bravery of first responders.
  • The 50th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act : This landmark legislation ensured that all Americans had equal access to vote, regardless of race. A commemorative speech could reflect on the progress made since then, as well as the work that still needs to be done.
  • The Life and Legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg : The late Supreme Court Justice made groundbreaking strides for gender equality and earned the nickname “Notorious RBG.” A commemorative speech could highlight her accomplishments and inspire listeners to continue fighting for justice.
  • The 10th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina : This natural disaster devastated New Orleans and exposed systemic failures in emergency preparedness. A commemorative speech could focus on the resilience of the community and the need for continued support and change.
  • The 100th Anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance : This cultural movement gave rise to celebrated writers, musicians, and artists who expressed the Black experience. A commemorative speech could explore the impact of the Harlem Renaissance on American culture and society.
  • The Life and Legacy of Toni Morrison : The late Nobel Prize-winning author tackled issues of race, slavery, and identity in her acclaimed works such as “Beloved.” A commemorative speech could honor her literary contributions and encourage listeners to confront difficult truths.

These topics are just a starting point. The possibilities for a commemorative speech are endless, as long as they are meaningful and relevant to the occasion. Remember to choose a subject that speaks to you and your audience, and use the tips provided earlier in this guide to craft a powerful and memorable speech.

Famous Commemorative Speeches

As a copywriting journalist, I’ve had the pleasure of analyzing some of the most powerful speeches in history. When it comes to commemorative speeches, a few examples have stood the test of time and remain iconic to this day. These speeches are not only memorable but have also left an indelible impact on society. Here are a few examples:

Each of these speeches has a unique approach and style, yet they all manage to capture the essence of the occasion and leave a lasting impact on the audience. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech is a classic example of how a speechwriter can use inspiring language and repetition to create a memorable message. Ronald Reagan’s “Challenger Disaster” speech, delivered after the tragic event, is another example of how a speech can provide comfort and hope in times of distress. Finally, Maya Angelou’s “On the Pulse of Morning,” recited at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration, showcases the power of poetry in evoking emotions and inspiring change.

Lessons from Famous Commemorative Speeches

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

These speeches have a lot to teach us about the craft of speechwriting. From Martin Luther King Jr.’s use of metaphors, to Ronald Reagan’s poignant storytelling, to Maya Angelou’s musicality of language, each of these speeches is a masterclass in the art of public speaking. They show us that a commemorative speech should not only honor the past but also inspire a better future.

  • Use powerful language and storytelling to evoke emotions.
  • Connect with the audience on a personal level.
  • Highlight positive aspects and provide hope for the future.
  • End with a memorable phrase or call to action.

These are just a few of the lessons we can learn from studying famous commemorative speeches . By applying these techniques, we can create speeches that not only honor and remember the past but also inspire and motivate the future.

Tips for Delivering a Commemorative Speech

So, you’ve written a killer commemorative speech and now it’s time to deliver it to the masses. Don’t panic, my friend! With these tips, you’ll knock your audience’s socks off and leave them wanting more.

  • Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse: Practice makes perfect, and it’s essential to delivering a polished speech. Try reciting your speech in front of a mirror, friends, or family to get comfortable and identify areas for improvement.
  • Authenticity is key: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Stay true to yourself and your personal style, whether that means cracking some jokes or shedding a few tears.
  • Maintain eye contact: Look your audience in the eye and connect with them on a personal level. This will help establish trust and credibility while making your speech more engaging.
  • Use your body language: Your body language can convey just as much meaning as your words. Stand tall, use hand gestures, and move around the stage to keep your audience engaged.
  • Speak with purpose: Vary your tone, volume, and pace to emphasize key points and keep your audience engaged. Remember, you’re not just reading a script, you’re telling a story.
  • Convey genuine emotions: Don’t be afraid to show your emotions. Whether you’re happy, sad, or somewhere in between, let your audience feel what you’re feeling. This will help establish a meaningful connection with your listeners.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to deliver a commemorative speech that will be remembered for years to come. Break a leg!

Conclusion:

Well, fellow writers, we’ve come to the end of our commemorative speech writing guide. It’s been a journey filled with emotions, personal anecdotes, and impactful language. We’ve learned the importance of honoring and remembering significant moments in history and connecting with our audience on an emotional level.

Remember, a great commemorative speech doesn’t simply inform, it inspires. By following the outline we’ve provided, choosing one of the suggested topics, and incorporating our tips for delivering the speech effectively, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a masterpiece.

So go forth, dear friends, and leave your audiences in awe with your powerful and memorable commemorative speeches. Don’t forget to revisit some of the famous speeches we’ve discussed for inspiration, and most importantly, have fun with it. After all, writing speeches is a work of heart.

Q: What is a commemorative speech?

A: A commemorative speech is a speech given to honor and remember a person, event, or significant milestone. It serves to evoke emotions and create a lasting impact on the audience.

Q: How do I write a commemorative speech?

A: To write a commemorative speech, you should start by researching the subject and gathering relevant information. Then, structure your speech with an introduction, background information, personal anecdotes, reflection, and conclusion. Use impactful language and storytelling techniques to connect with the audience on an emotional level.

Q: Can you provide an outline for a commemorative speech?

A: Certainly! A sample outline for a commemorative speech could include: – Introduction: Grab the audience’s attention and provide a brief overview of the occasion. – Background information: Provide context about the person, event, or milestone being commemorated. – Personal anecdotes: Share stories or experiences that highlight the significance of the subject. – Reflection: Offer your thoughts and insights on the impact and legacy of the subject. – Conclusion: Wrap up the speech by summarizing key points and leaving a lasting impression.

Q: What are some suggested topics for commemorative speeches in 2024?

A: In 2024, some suggested topics for commemorative speeches could include current events, significant anniversaries, notable individuals, or any other subject that holds relevance and impact for the year. Choose a topic that resonates with you and allows you to craft a meaningful speech.

Q: Can you give examples of famous commemorative speeches?

A: Absolutely! Some examples of famous commemorative speeches include Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream,” Ronald Reagan’s “Challenger Disaster,” and Maya Angelou’s “On the Pulse of Morning.” These speeches are known for their memorable qualities and profound impact on society.

Q: What are some tips for delivering a commemorative speech?

A: When delivering a commemorative speech, it’s important to rehearse beforehand to ensure smooth delivery. Pay attention to your body language and vocal tone to convey authenticity and engage the audience. Connect with the emotions of the audience and convey genuine feelings. Remember, delivering a powerful commemorative speech is all about connecting with your audience and leaving a lasting impression.

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Writing a Commemorative Speech That Makes an Impact

woman giving commemorative speech

  • DESCRIPTION woman giving commemorative speech
  • SOURCE Lisa5201 / E+ / Getty
  • PERMISSION Used under Getty Images license

A commemorative speech is a presentation given to pay tribute to a person, a group of people or an organization, or in honor of an event or situation that has taken place. This type of speech is typically given at a special event or ceremony. The content should highlight why this person, place, organization, or event was, and continues to be, important.

Tips for Writing a Commemorative Speech

Commemorative speeches are often written as a way of remembering who has passed away or for a celebration that honors a person, place, or event. Such a speech needs to be meaningful, respectful and courteous. Your aim is to make the audience remember . You also want to express yourself and motivate others to feel just as strongly. Sometimes these speeches are filled with emotion, and other times, they are filled with inspiration, hope and information.

Choose a Theme

Since a commemorative speech focuses on recognizing accomplishments, it's important to choose a theme consistent with the person, group, organization, or situation that is being remembered. Think about the impact the subject of the speech had on you and the audience as you are reflecting on what the theme should be.

Brainstorm for Content Ideas

Before writing a commemorative speech, brainstorm some ideas for information you can include in your speech. Rather than trying to write out the whole speech at once, start with a list of elements you want to include.

To identify those elements, consider the following questions:

  • How can you respectfully share the significance of this person with others?
  • If someone were giving this speech about you, what would you want them to say?
  • What key memories, ideas or information about this person do you want to share with a greater audience?
  • What stories would you want to hear if you were listening to this commemorative speech?
  • Who was this person to you, specifically? Who were they to the people in the audience? What are the relationships between people that you want to highlight?

Craft an Outline

Once you have selected a theme, write a speech outline that highlights the main points you want to cover. Before filling in the outline with details, review to verify if what you are sharing is focused on paying tribute to the subject of the speech rather than merely conveying information . Tweak as needed so that the content is appropriate for the audience and occasion; it's important for your words to resonate with those who will witness the speech being delivered.

Write an Attention-Getting Introduction

Begin your speech with an attention-getting statement, such as a sweeping assertion about the impact of the person, organization or event that your commemorative speech is about. Make it clear that your goal is to bring attention to the subject of the speech for the specific purposes of commemorating key accomplishments. Build a personal connection with the audience by using figurative language and allowing your feelings about the subject of the speech to shine through.

Share Key Details

With a basic outline in place, the next step will be to add details. Include factual information about the subject of the speech, along with some personal observations or anecdotes. Talk to others who have been motivated or inspired by the person or thing you are commemorating, as you may be able to draw ideas and inspiration from their passion. Add quotes as appropriate, including sayings that can be attributed to the subject of the speech if such are available.

Conclude Naturally

Structure the conclusion of your speech so that it flows naturally from the details you are sharing, whether you're citing a quotation, telling a story or listing accomplishments. Since the purpose of the speech is to commemorate, reiterate accomplishments achieved by the subject of the speech and express what their impact has been, and will continue to be. Consider a call to action designed to inspire audience members to follow the example set by the person or other entity about which the speech was delivered.

Practice in Front of an Audience

When writing, ask friends, family and colleagues to listen to your work and help add clarity to the points you're trying to make. Even speeches given by experts can be difficult for a live audience to follow, and it's all the more difficult when emotions are running high. Something on paper that makes sense might not be as easy to follow when spoken aloud.

Ask for advice about changing phrasing, word order and even speech patterns so your writing becomes comprehensible. Remember, constructive criticism isn't an attack on your work. No work on your written speech can replace the vital input derived from giving the speech out loud and incorporating feedback.

Common Commemorative Speech Topics

There are many kinds of commemorative speeches. This type of presentation can be delivered for a wide variety of purposes at many different kinds of events.

  • retirement speech in commemoration of someone's accomplishments at work
  • eulogy in honor of someone who has recently passed away
  • graduation speech presented at a ceremony in which diplomas or degrees are being conferred
  • farewell speech to someone who is moving away or leaving a job
  • anniversary speech in honor of a loving couple
  • years of service milestone for a long-term employee
  • accomplishment of a company milestone, such as receipt of an industry award or significant business anniversary
  • gratitude for a loved one's special support

Commemorative Speech Examples

A commemorative speech might be addressing anyone or, indeed, anything. It can be understandably difficult to start writing with so little to go on. We've assembled a few examples of how to address particular subjects that might be of use to you.

About a Colleague or Supervisor

Whether you're giving a speech about someone you work with or work for, the approach is largely the same. Keep the tone professional, with just a short anecdote or two for sweetening. Focus on specifics. Why does this person mean so much to you?

Bob's retirement is a bittersweet occasion. He is such an integral part of the XYZ Corporation team that it's difficult to picture what the workplace will be like without his smiling face. However, it is also an occasion for joy, as Bob so deserves the opportunity to retire and follow his dream of traveling the country in an RV. Bob is an incredible coworker who sets an ideal example of what it means to be a team player. He was always the true north for our department. While we may not be following his lead on the next critical project, we'll continue to follow his example. There is no question that Bob left his mark on his team and the overall company. We wish him a safe journey and a most excellent retirement.

About a Friend

In terms of tone , this sits between what you might write about a work colleague and what you might write about a parent. You can share a few stories, but you should also focus on the real, concrete importance of this person in your life. It's also very easy for a speech about a friend to turn into a speech about yourself. Focus on their accomplishments, not your own.

What can I say about Lisa, who has been my closest friend since the first day of high school? How long do I have to speak? Actually, I only need a few moments. It doesn't take a long time to convey that she is loyal, kind and brilliant. In short, she is extraordinary. It is no wonder that we find ourselves saying both goodbye and congratulations, as she has always been destined for great things. She may be moving away to explore her dreams, but her inspiration will stay with all of us forever. Distance may be physical and far, but friendship is forever and the bonds run deep. Please join me in thanking her for being a part of all of our lives while wishing her success for the future.

About Your Parent(s)

No one expects a speech about one or both of your parents to be dry and clinical. Don't shy away from an anecdote or two, and don't be afraid to tug on some heartstrings.

On the occasion of my college graduation, I am not the hero of the story. I'd like to take the tie to commemorate the two people who have not only made this day possible, but who have together made me who I am as a person. I can say firsthand that raising me was not the easiest of tasks; I often saw to that through my words and my deeds. When others may have given up on me or thought I was destined to fail, my parents persevered. Even when I was sure that I could not succeed, they helped me find my way. I know how incredibly fortunate I am to have been raised by these incredible people. Today is their day; celebrate their accomplishments as the two best parents that anyone could ever have.

About Someone Who Has Passed

Obviously, respect and restraint are called for when delivering a eulogy . At the same time, you should honor the effect this person had on your life. Engage the audience: talk about events you all might have shared with the person, or aspects of their life you all knew about.

We are gathered here today because we all loved Violet. She touched each of us in her special way, along with countless others who crossed her path. Violet never met a stranger and was never burdened by lending a hand to help others in need. We can all learn what faith, hope and charity truly mean by learning from the example she set. If she were here now, she'd smile and say, "I just did what anyone would do," but we all know that she was in the habit of going way above and beyond to leave the people who crossed her path better than she found them. Her loss is felt deeply and truly, but so is her impact. Resolve today to carry Violet's spirit with you and bring joy and light to others, just as she did for you and me. She is gone, but not forgotten and she lives on in each of us.

Tips and Tricks for Writing Your Best Speech

Recognize that you will probably be speaking in front of an audience of different backgrounds. Some people might be very familiar with the topics you discuss, while some might be listening to this information for the first time.

  • Be clear with your words. For example, take the time to explain things instead of using jargon that might go over some people's heads.
  • Be personal — up to a point. A brief anecdote or joke about your relationship with the subject is welcome. After all, the audience has a relationship with the subject too. That said, the operative word is brief . An anecdote is a hook to get people's attention. The rest of the speech should focus on the subject.
  • Don't talk down to your audience. Acknowledge what they already know and share new things with a tone of holding a conversation between equals, as opposed to showing off your own knowledge.
  • Keep it simple. Clarity stays with people while being overly verbose can cause audience members to tune out.
  • Remember that this speech is not about you, nor is it really about the subject. It all comes down to the audience. Commit your speech to addressing their feelings and representing their collective voice.

Speaking Well

Do not use a commemorative speech as a chance for self-promotion or to share your hubris. If you are worried about how people will perceive you — like how your boss may be in attendance — remember that if you can give a selfless speech, this will speak more than threading personal pats-on-the-back into what you have to say. When writing a commemorative speech, keep it simple, respectful and honorable, and people will want to listen. For more help, review these helpful tips for giving a winning speech . Break a leg!

How to Write a Commemorative Speech to Make an Impact

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Can only high school students make a commemorative speech at the award-winning ceremony or university graduate at the convocation? No, not at all. Rather, being human, every one of us has some moments in our lives that are worth remembering and celebrating.

Whether it’s about honoring someone’s performance or celebrating the colorful events, recalling the personal stories, or paying tribute to the legacy left by an individual.

We all have some interesting stories to share, inspiring virtues to salute and pay tribute to someone’s actions, and lessons learned from other’s experiences.

According to the University of Pittsburgh, the commemorative speech is not just giving the information, rather it is about celebration, acknowledgment, paying tribute etc. 

But what topics to choose that captivates, what solutions to adopt like the writer took to inspire the audience? So, this is what the author is going to share below with commemorative speech examples.

Table of Contents

Why Is This Commemorative Speech Topic Important for Author?

You must be wondering why it is important for us to talk about commemorative speeches. Well, It is all about sharing the personal experience when one of our students had to face a lot of challenges while delivering a speech on his best friend’s birthday. Although he has never been shy when it comes to public speaking, this particular experience was quite different. Because he had to navigate various challenges of selecting the right speech to commemorate topic that capture the essence of friendship, structuring the speech and picking the right words that reflect the laughter, tears, and the amazing moments of friendship. This incredible experience encouraged us to share those challenges, the initial hesitation, and the solutions we helped him to adopt to learn the art of writing the speech of commemoration.

What is a Commemorative Speech?

A commemorative speech serves as a tribute, an eloquent homage, or a celebration of a person, an event, or an achievement. It serves to honor the essence, significance, and impact of the subject being commemorated.

Furthermore, it uses different  types of tones in writing  and stands as a vessel that transports the audience through cherished memories, remarkable achievements, or profound influences. It encapsulates the essence of the individual or event being celebrated, imprinting a lasting tribute within the hearts of the listeners.

Challenges for Students While Writing Speech of Commemoration

Emotional Depth

Expressing genuine emotions and capturing the essence of the subject while maintaining composure can be challenging.

Finding the Right Words

Struggling to find appropriate and impactful words to honor the significance of the individual or event being commemorated.

Structural Clarity

Establishing a clear structure for the speech, including the introduction, body, and conclusion, while maintaining a coherent flow of ideas.

Balancing Emotions and Facts While Writing About Commemorative Speech Topics

Ensuring a balance between emotional content and factual accuracy, especially when recounting historical events or achievements.

Addressing Audience Sensitivities 

Navigating sensitive topics or delivering speeches to diverse audiences while considering varying perspectives and sensitivities.

Researching the Subject 

Conducting thorough research to gather relevant and accurate information about the individual, event, or achievement being commemorated.

Time Constraints While Writing Commemorative SPeech

Managing time effectively to both research comprehensively and craft a well-structured, impactful speech within a limited timeframe.

Overcoming Nervousness

Overcoming stage fright or nervousness when delivering the speech, especially when the subject holds personal significance.

Maintaining Honesty and Authenticity

Struggling to strike a balance between honoring the subject authentically and avoiding exaggeration or misrepresentation.

Capturing Audience Attention

Ensuring the speech captivates and engages the audience throughout its duration, leaving a lasting impression.

Why Should Students Learn Speech to Commemorate?

Learning how to write a commemorative speech like  expert essay writers  specifically for commemoration holds substantial significance for students:

  • Crafting a speech teaches students the art of honoring and celebrating important individuals, events, or achievements, fostering respect and appreciation.
  • It enhances communication abilities, encouraging students to articulate thoughts, emotions, and stories effectively, and fostering public speaking skills.
  • Writing a speech of commemoration cultivates empathy and emotional intelligence by exploring and conveying the impact and significance of the subject being commemorated.
  • It teaches students to connect with diverse audiences by conveying a compelling narrative, eliciting emotions, and leaving a lasting impact through words.
  • Crafting a speech after choosing the right commemorative speech topics enables students to acknowledge and preserve legacies, ensuring the essence of individuals or events is remembered and cherished.
  • It encourages reflective learning, prompting students to analyze and articulate the importance and impact of a person or event.
  • Writing a speech of commemoration instills life skills such as research, organization, and critical thinking, fostering a deeper understanding of historical or personal significance.
  • It allows students to appreciate and celebrate diversity by acknowledging and honoring various cultural, social, or historical contributions.
  • Mastering the art of delivering a speech boosts confidence and self-assurance in public speaking and storytelling.
  • It encourages students to respect and acknowledge heritage, preserving stories and memories for future generations.

How to Write a Commemorative Speech? 10 Steps

Here’s a step-by-step guide for you to learn how to write a speech to commemorate that also includes some excellent speech examples to improve your understanding. 

Plus you will also get an idea of what to pick from different speech topics as the examples below are on different subjects. So Let’s s begin: 

Step 1: Pick a Subject

The first step is to choose the topic about which you want to make the commemorative speech. You can pay tribute to someone’s legacy, acknowledge contributions, or salute to the welfare cause of any personality.

Suppose that you are going to make a speech of commemoration to honor the 30 years of teaching services of Mrs. Thompson. 

Impact and Legacy

The positive impacts of Mrs. Thompson are not only limited to her academic successes. Rather her commitment and compassion toward teaching have enabled many students to realize their dreams. 

Significance for Commemorative Speech

Keeping in view the 30 years of teaching services in shaping youth’s future, the retirement of Mrs. Thompson brings the end of the impeccable career that deserves to be honored and celebrated. 

Example Speech Point

Today, as we are here to recognize the extraordinary career of Mrs. Thompson, we not only pay tribute to the end of an era but also honor the long-term effects of an exceptional educator. The great legacy she left goes beyond just the culmination of the 30 years spent in the classroom; it incorporates the countless stories of individuals whose lives were ignited by her inspiration and mentorship.

Explanation

Mrs. Thompson’s retirement is of great significance because it reflects the end of a long teaching journey dedicated to academia. The long-standing impacts and the heritage of mentorship are evident in the services she devoted. This example speech highlights her services beyond teaching and signifies her influence on the individual lives she touched.

Like the example, make sure to use the appropriate type of text structure that conveys the right sense and meaning as per the context. make sure to use the right  type of text structure  that conveys the proper sense and meaning in a specific context.

Step 2: Research Thoroughly

Collecting the data and information about the particular topic is an important step of learning how to write a commemorative speech. You can go for the personal anecdote or visualize the historical context to set the well-rounded stage.

Visit the different online resources to gather the relevant information for instance, if you are going to make a speech about Rosa Parks.

Biographical Details

Start with providing the basic information such as date of birth, early education, family background, etc. 

Significant Achievements

Shed light on her important life achievements such as how she played an active role in the Civil Rights Movement and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Personal Anecdotes

Explore data about her personal stories that bring the little-known aspects of her life. For example, you can highlight her commitment, determination, and resilience she showed during the movements. 

Historical Context in Commemorative Speech

Discuss her practical role within the broader spectrum of the movements. Contextualize the results of her actions on the society as a whole. 

Example Research Findings

Rosa Parks was born on February 4, 1913, in the city of Tuskegee, Alabama. She became popular due to her active role in the Montgomery bus Boycott. One of the most pivotal moments of her life was her refusal to give up her seat to the white passenger, which infused the motivations in the Civil Rights Movement. 

In the given example, the research involves collecting the relevant data about Rosa Parks. which includes gathering her biographical data and highlighting her key achievements during the Civil Rights Movement. So, this strategy permits a well-rounded representation of Rosa Parks’s life which not only incorporates her role in the right movement but also portrays her acts on the bus. So, conducting in-depth research forms the foundation for delivering the inspiring speech of commemoration that acknowledges her legacy in the struggle for equality.

Step 3: Define the Purpose for Commemoration Speech

Identify and decide the tone and style of your speech that aligns with the speech objective and the audience’s interest. For instance, the tone can be celebratory, reflective, or a combination of both. Now, let’s take an example to decide upon the tone of a commemorative speech by using the example of the community leader, Sarah Johnson. 

Determining Purpose and Tone

Purpose:  This research aims to acknowledge the decades-long services the Sarah Johnson for the community.

Tone:  Here, we can adapt the celebratory or reflective tone while celebrating Sarah’s achievements and reflecting upon her emotions as well as the lasting impacts of her departure. 

Example Speech Tone

Today we are here to celebrate and pay tribute to the esteemed services rendered by the great community leader, Sarah Johnson. Let’s honor her tireless commitment and dedication she devoted to improving all of our lives. 

Elaboration

So, you can see in one of these commemorative speech examples, that the objective of the speech is simple and clear. That is to pay tribute to Sarah Johnson’s leadership role and her services to the community. This example recognizes Sarah’s contributions and achievements toward humanity while allowing the audience to reflect upon the influence she had on society as a whole. Adopting this combination of tone and style aligns with the occasion and allows the public to ponder and applaud her accomplishments. Moreover, adopting this approach makes sure  how to start a speech  that acknowledges the legacy of Sarah Johnson in a suitable manner.

Step 4: Structure

Begin with some thought-provoking question that captures the audience’s attention as given in the below commemorative speech examples.

Divide the body section into logical sections and subsections. It can include personal anecdotes, achievements, or personality traits. 

Close the speech by restating the key points and powerful words that leave the readers with lasting impressions.

Step 5: Craft a Compelling Narrative

Brainstorm the ideas and some storyline that logically establishes the relationship between different life aspects of the subject such as achievements that make the speech quite interesting. 

Coming up with an engaging narrative can include combining the different aspects of the subject’s life into a smooth flow and structured story. Don’t understand? Ok, let’s understand this with an example that focuses on basically what is a commemorative speech by discussing a famous artist, Emily Harris.

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

Subject Overview: Emily Harris is a famous artist who is popular due to her creativity and strong influence on contemporary art. 

Introduction: Introduce Emily Harris and her significance in the art world. Highlight her unique style and initial struggles as an emerging artist.

Artistic Evolution: Explore the evolution of Emily’s artistry, from early experiments to breakthrough moments that defined her style. Discuss pivotal artworks and their influence.

Influence and Impact: Delve into how Emily’s art transcended boundaries, inspiring others and leaving a lasting mark on the art community.

Personal Insights: Share personal anecdotes or moments that shaped Emily’s artistic journey, revealing her motivations, challenges faced, and moments of inspiration.

Legacy and Enduring Influence: Reflect on Emily’s enduring legacy, discussing her impact on future generations of artists and the broader artistic landscape.

Example Narrative Segment in Commemorative Speech

Emily Harris, with her bold strokes and visionary concepts, revolutionized the art world. Her journey began with humble beginnings, experimenting with various mediums in a tiny studio. As she honed her craft, her breakthrough masterpiece, ‘Ethereal Fusion,’ captivated audiences, showcasing her mastery of color and form.

Details: A Perfect Illustration

In this example to learn what is a commemorative speech, crafting a compelling narrative for Emily Harris involves narrating her artistic evolution from early struggles to pivotal moments and the enduring impact of her work. The narrative paints a vivid picture of Emily’s journey, portraying her artistic growth, influential artworks, and the legacy she leaves behind. By weaving together various aspects of her life and achievements, this narrative aims to engage the audience, providing a holistic view of Emily Harris’s profound influence on the art world.

Step 6: Use Emotive Language

Employ vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and emotionally resonant language to captivate the audience and convey the essence of the subject.

Employing vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and emotionally resonant language is crucial to engaging the audience and conveying the essence of the subject in a commemorative speech. Let’s explore this through an example focused on honoring a philanthropic figure, James Thompson:

Using Emotionally Resonant Language

Vivid Descriptions:  Use evocative language to describe James’s passion for aiding others. “James Thompson, a beacon of hope in the community, possessed an unwavering commitment to alleviating suffering and fostering positive change.”

Anecdotes: Share compelling anecdotes that showcase James’s selflessness and impact. “I remember the day when James single-handedly organized a food drive that fed hundreds of families during a crisis, demonstrating his compassion and proactive spirit.”

Emotional Resonance: Use emotionally resonant language to convey the depth of James’s contributions. “James’s empathy knew no bounds; his dedication to uplifting the underprivileged touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the community’s collective heart.”

Commemoration Speech Examples

Segment with emotionally resonant language.

In a world often clouded by darkness, James Thompson emerged as a beacon of compassion and action. His unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes transformed countless lives, bringing light and hope to those in need.

Expanding on It

In one of these  forms of creative writing , employing emotionally resonant language involves using descriptive phrases that evoke strong emotions and portray James Thompson’s altruism vividly. By painting a vivid picture of James’s philanthropic endeavors and their impact, the language captures the essence of his compassionate nature. The anecdote shared adds a personal touch, illustrating James’s actions and their profound effect on the community. This emotionally resonant language aims to engage the audience and convey the depth of James Thompson’s contributions, ensuring his legacy remains etched in the hearts of those listening to the commemorative speech.

Step 7: Balance Emotion and Information

Maintaining the balance between emotions as well as information includes combining factual information with storytelling regarding commemorative speech topics. To comprehend it more clearly, we are going to take the example of Dr. Maya, a well-known scientist.

Subject Overview: Dr. Maya is a popular scientist who is known for his creative work in the field of environment.

Emotional Storytelling: In order to highlight the Dr. Patel contribution for the environmental protection, you can go with some emotional storytelling techniques here. Dr.Patel was profoundly influenced by his childhood passion for the environment and nature.

Factual Information: Make use of some facts and statistics about the contributions of Dr. Patel in protecting our land. For example, her creative solutions in sustainable energy resources helped her to earn immense applause from the community.

Anecdotes and Emotions: You can use personal stories to mark Dr. Patel’s work in providing us the better environment to live in. Her written publications are evident of her work while throwing away the comfort. 

Example Segment Balancing Emotion and Information in Commemorative Speech

Dr. Patel’s passion for conserving our environment stems from her love of nature. Her innovative work for the environment not only earned her global fame but also introduced academia with a pioneering work in renewable energy solutions.

Elaboration 

In the example of speech to commemorate at hand, maintaining the balance between emotional storytelling and factual information involves combining Dr. Patel’s achievements in the environmental field. The story not only signifies her connection with environmental protection but also highlights her scientific contributions. So here you can see by mixing the personal stories that reflect Dr. Patel’s passions with some factual data to achieve the right balance. 

Step 8: Consider Audience Sensitivities

Including audience sensitivities and emotions while writing the commemorative speech is important. Let’s take another example to honor the cultural icon, Maria Gonzales.

Being Mindful of Audience Sensitivities

It is crucial to acknowledge the varying opinions and beliefs within the audience. “Maria’s message of inclusivity goes beyond the limitations and touches the hearts of the people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.”

Consider the emotions that universally establish the relationship between people. “Her unfaltering commitment to unity triggers appreciation thereby surpassing the cultural divides.”

Be careful while delivering the commemorative speech on sensitive topics to make sure that it remains respectable and resonates amongst people from all walks of life.

Example Segment Considering Audience Sensitivities

Maria Gonzales’ work for unity is revered by everyone who promotes unity and inclusivity. Her work goes beyond the cultural and religious barriers that unite us in every shared aspect and bring harmony.

In this example, being mindful of the sensitivities and beliefs, included delivering a speech that remains respectful to everyone’s belief and resonates universally. By emphasizing unity, inclusivity, and acceptance, the objective of the speech is to connect diverse perspectives without focusing on the divisive points.

Step 9: Practice and Refine

As it is said practice makes a man perfect so, practice your speech to commemorate to ensure that it goes with the right pace, tone, and style. Let’s take an example of a community leader, John Smith.

Rehearsal Process

Practice Sessions: Repeat your speech at least three times by emphasizing its flow, pace, and emotions. Focus on how each section of the speech connects and make transitions.

Tone and Emphasis: Exercise different tones and styles by repeating the important points. Make adjustments to your flow that bring an inspiring pause and moments of reflection.

Coherence and Impact: While exercising to learn what is a commemorative speech, analyze the speech’s logical flow to make sure that each section contributes to the overall message’s quality. Proofread and edit the speech to ensure that it makes a positive impact by following coherence. Although it’s quite challenging to practice, you can hire an assignment writing service , especially when you want to bring coherence to your speech.

Seek Feedback: Seeking feedback from your fellows and peers helps improve the areas where you require more work in your speech

Example Segment on Rehearsing the Speech

To acknowledge John Smith’s work, I have done a lot of practice on some commemorative speech topics and repeated the speech countless times. Each time I repeated the speech, it gave me a chance to come closer to perfection. Due to practice, I approached the right tone, style, and pacing in my speech to pay tribute to John Smith’s legacy.

Improving Your Understanding

This example of practicing how to write a commemorative speech aims at bringing improvements in speech delivery. The speaker stresses the need to rehearse the speech multiple times by making sure that the spoken words convey the intended message and capture the audience’s emotions effectively. The main focus of rehearsing is to find the right pace and powerful moments that play a role in marking the John Smith legacy.

Step 10: Deliver with Conviction

Be confident and speak loudly while you deliver the commemorative speech before the audience. Making eye contact with the audience will give you a chance to establish a connection and convey the emotions that you want to deliver through your speech.

Final Thoughts On Commemorative Speech

Delivering a powerful commemorative speech requires the art of capturing the essence of past moments in our lives. Every one of us has some colorful moments to celebrate and personalities to pay tribute etc. However, coming up with the right topic for speeches to commemorate is of much significance. Therefore, in this topic, we have covered the easy-to-follow solutions that make the entire process manageable.

If you are still finding it hard to select powerful topics and come up with an interesting commemorative speech for your upcoming ceremony, don’t think twice and order now, to get our expert help in crafting the speech that resonates with your audience.

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Speech And Debate

Commemorative Speech

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Commemorative Speech: Guide to Craft an Engaging Speech

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Sep 15, 2020

Commemorative Speech

A commemorative speech is also known as a ceremonial speech. It is a type of speech given on a special occasion or event to celebrate a particular situation, event, or a person/group. It is mostly given to pay tribute or show gratitude towards an event, idea, or person.

By commemorating you inspire or give the audience hope for the future, boost their feelings and emotions.

To learn how to craft effective commemorative speeches, give this article a thorough read.

Commemorative Speech

On this Page

What is a Commemorative Speech

As we mentioned earlier, a commemorative speech is a form of public speaking where the main purpose is to celebrate a particular thing.

Most students in the United States are asked to deliver an inspiring commemorative speech at the graduation ceremony. Here students express their gratitude towards their college, professors, family, classmates, etc.

For such occasions, you must write from the heart, reminiscing about the past and the important events. This kind of speech includes personal touch and the tips and tricks given here will help you write a speech successfully.

Commemorative speech requires a focus on the past, present, and future aspects of the topic. For instance, success, loyalty, wisdom, courage, hope, etc.

It can also be an award acceptance speech, or a eulogy to honor someone after their death. Now that you have understood the commemorative speech definition, let’s take a look and learn how to write a commemorative speech?

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Commemorative Speech Outline

Just as any other piece of writing, a speech follows a particular outline and structure.

Begin the speech by stating the significance of your topic.

Make it interesting to grab the audience’s attention. If you’re talking about a person, share an interesting thing that they did or said. If your speech is about a particular event, discuss how it brings different people together, etc.

Your reason for paying tribute.

Why are you paying tribute to your subject and the kind of tribute? Why should they be honored and why at this particular event.

Highlight their achievements.

Next, talk about the contributions and accomplishments with examples and evidence.

Importance of these achievements.

Highlight the importance of these accomplishments, who benefits from them? How are these efforts valuable to us?

Make the audience empathize.

If talking about a person, make the audience think about how they can also become like that person, what practices can we learn and adopt?

In this section, the transition towards a brief summary of the speech. Share an anecdote or short story.

Commemorative Speech Examples

COMMEMORATIVE SPEECH EXAMPLE

COMMEMORATIVE SPEECH SAMPLE

How to Choose a Commemorative Speech Topic

When asked to deliver a commemorative speech for a class, you must first brainstorm different ideas that can be added to your speech.

Consider the following points in mind when brainstorming different topics:

Online Research

There is a list of commemorative speech topics available online. You can also find videos of previous commemorative speeches delivered at your school or by celebrities, etc.

Brainstorming potential ideas will enable you to come up with a topic relevant to you and your personal situation.

In order to make your speech and topic meaningful, think of the things you would want to share about the person. Or the information you want to share with others about a situation or event.

When thinking about the different stories to add, consider sharing that maybe you would want to hear in a commemorative speech.

If you are talking about a person then think of ways how you can share things about them respectfully, without offending them or anyone else.

Understand Your Audience

The most important ingredient that makes any piece of writing or speech work is the audience. It is they who decide whether or not the piece was worth it.

In order to ensure that you stay relevant to the audience, keeping in mind their interests and personalities and build your work around that.

Also, if you are going to mention someone directly in your speech you must be aware of the people who are going to be there.

Convey a Meaningful Message

A commemorative speech is a type of informative speech where the aim is to inform the listener about a particular topic. Although the main goal is to praise or commemorate something, your message must be clear and meaningful throughout the rest of the speech.

A  speech writing  guide will help you create an impactful and impressive speech.

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Commemorative Speech Topics

There are several different categories of commemorative speech ideas depending upon the event or occasion.

Here are some of our best suggested commemorative speech ideas that you can choose from:

  • Paying tribute to a family member
  • Paying tribute to an important personality, dead or alive (Martin Luther King, Barack Obama)
  • Paying tribute to a big movement (Women's rights movement, the civil rights movement)
  • Celebrating the values of a religion (Buddhist values)
  • Speak on the importance of hope (NASA's Apollo 13 survival mission)
  • Celebrate human courage, or a courageous act in a challenging situation by policemen, firefighters, veterans
  • Selflessness of a teacher or parent, their dedication and love
  • An act of compromise that marked the start of you becoming a mature and evolved person
  • Show respect to the greatest travelers that ever lived (Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama)
  • Eulogy for a professor at your college
  • Speak about your transformation both spiritually and intellectually after starting college
  • The series of events that lead to you and your classmates becoming a family
  • A time you and your team won a match due to the support of the College
  • Provide an example of loyalty by discussing war comrades
  • What does freedom mean to you?
  • Commemorate the lives lost on 9/11
  • Celebrate the legalization of gay marriages
  • Queen Elizebeth and her life
  • Buying your first house
  • Remembering your grandmother
  • Women who changed the world for the better
  • Father of the bride speech
  • Maid of honor speech
  • Best technology inventions

Here is a little activity for you to clarify the concept of commemorative speech. Which of the following is an example of a commemorative speech?

  • A speech that demonstrates how to plan a wedding.
  • A speech honoring the life of Martin Luther King.
  • A speech telling the people where they can find the work of Vincent Van Gogh.
  • A speech for the school board to get funding for the school dance.

These were some of the topics for a commemorative speech just to give you an idea of what direction to think in. You may use these topics as is, or brainstorm staying on this track and you'll have an inspiring topic to talk on.

If you are unable to come up with an engaging topic, feel free to reach out to the expert writers at  5StarEssays.com .

Request an essay for me ! Enjoy a well-crafted commemorative speech at the most affordable prices and leave everyone in awe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of a commemorative speech.

A commemorative speech is delivered to inspire the audience and to pay tribute to a person. It highlights the qualities and works of the person.

Is eulogy a commemorative speech?

A eulogy is a kind of commemorative speech and it also includes other kinds of speeches also.

Cordon J.

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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How to write a commemorative speech with examples, carla johnson.

  • October 9, 2023
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Nursing is a profession that embodies compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. As nursing students, you are on a journey to join the ranks of these incredible healthcare heroes. A commemorative speech is a powerful way to honor the achievements, dedication, and contributions of nursing professionals . In this article, we will explore what a commemorative speech is, dissect an exemplary speech, and offer insights on how to write a commemorative speech to nurses who inspire and motivate you.

What You'll Learn

What is a Commemorative Speech?

A commemorative speech, often called a tribute speech, is a type of public address delivered to honor and celebrate a person, group, event, or idea. In the context of nursing students, it serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to the extraordinary nurses who have made significant contributions to the field. These speeches are not only a means of expressing appreciation but also a way to inspire and motivate future nurses by highlighting the virtues and qualities that define excellence in nursing.

Example of a Commemorative Speech

Title: “a tribute to nursing excellence: celebrating the pioneers”.

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty, fellow nursing students , and distinguished guests, today we gather to pay tribute to the unsung heroes who have left an indelible mark on the world of nursing. These individuals have dedicated their lives to the service of humanity, exemplifying the very essence of what it means to be a nurse.

I. The Heart of Nursing

A. Compassion and Empathy

At the heart of nursing lies compassion and empathy. Our honorees today have not only demonstrated these qualities in their daily practice but have elevated them to an art form. Through countless hours spent by the bedside, holding hands, offering a comforting word, or simply lending a listening ear, they have shown that healing begins with empathy.

B. Dedication and Sacrifice

Nursing is not merely a profession; it is a calling. Our nursing pioneers have made sacrifices that go beyond measure. They have missed family gatherings, worked long shifts , and endured physical and emotional exhaustion, all in the name of caring for others. Their unwavering dedication serves as a beacon for us all.

II. Innovation and Advancement

A. Embracing Change

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, innovation is key. The nurses we honor today have not shied away from change; instead, they have embraced it. They have been at the forefront of adopting new technologies and best practices , ensuring that patient care remains at the cutting edge.

B. Lifelong Learning

Nursing is a journey of continuous learning. Our celebrated nurses have shown us that education doesn’t end with a degree. They have pursued advanced degrees, attended conferences, and conducted research, contributing significantly to the advancement of nursing knowledge.

III. Leadership and Advocacy

A. Leading by Example

True leaders lead by example. Our nursing pioneers have not only excelled in their clinical roles but have also taken on leadership positions. They have mentored new generations of nurses, inspiring them to reach their full potential.

B. Advocating for Change

Advocacy is a fundamental aspect of nursing. Our honorees have used their voices to advocate for better patient care, improved working conditions, and healthcare policy changes. Their advocacy has made a difference, leaving a lasting impact on the nursing profession.

In conclusion, as nursing students, we stand on the shoulders of giants. The nurses we celebrate today have set a high standard of excellence in our field. They have shown us that nursing is not just a job but a lifelong commitment to compassion, innovation, leadership, and advocacy.

As we embark on our own journeys in nursing, let us remember the invaluable lessons we have learned from these remarkable individuals. Let their dedication and passion inspire us to become the best nurses we can be. Let us carry their legacy forward, ensuring that the torch of nursing excellence continues to burn brightly.

If you find yourself tasked with delivering a commemorative speech in the future or need assistance with any form of academic or professional writing, remember that help is just a click away. Our professional writing services are here to support you in crafting impactful speeches, essays, and content that resonates with your audience. Contact us today to discover how we can assist you in making your words truly shine.

Q1: What is a commemorative speech example? A commemorative speech example is a speech given to honor and celebrate a person, group, event, or idea. It typically highlights the virtues and qualities associated with the subject of tribute.

Q2: How do you start a commemorative speech example? Begin a commemorative speech by addressing the audience, acknowledging the significance of the occasion, and introducing the purpose of the speech, which is to celebrate and honor the subject of tribute.

Q3: What do you say in a commemorative speech? In a commemorative speech, you should talk about the subject’s qualities, achievements, contributions, and the impact they’ve had on others. Share personal anecdotes, memorable stories, or quotes that capture their essence.

Q4: What is an example of a commemorative speech conclusion? A commemorative speech conclusion should summarize the key points, express gratitude, and leave a lasting impression. For instance, you can conclude by emphasizing the subject’s legacy and how their influence will continue to inspire future generations

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Speech Writing

Commemorative Speech

Last updated on: Dec 31, 2023

Commemorative Speech - Writing Guide, Outline & Examples

By: Donna C.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Commemorative Speech

Giving a commemorative speech can be a great way to honor someone or something important to you. It can also be a great opportunity to share your experiences and feelings about the person or event you are commemorating.

Are you giving a commemorative speech for the first time and afraid of public speaking? This guide is for you!

We will walk you through the basics of writing, outlining, and delivering a commemorative speech.

Additionally, we will provide some examples of successful speeches in order to help inspire you. So whether you're preparing to give a speech for the first time or simply looking for ideas, read on!

Commemorative Speech

On this Page

Commemorative Speech Definition

A commemorative speech is a special speech given at a ceremony that praises the value of a person, place, event, idea, or institute.

This speech is more than just a verbal compliment, it's an expression of gratitude and acknowledgement.

The purpose of writing this speech is to:

  • Give your audience a sense of hope for the future.
  • Uplift the emotions and feelings.
  • Motivate the audience about a personality, event, or idea.
  • Provoke sentiments and express feelings.

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A commemorative speech can mark an anniversary, a funeral, or a memorial service. It’s also used at award ceremonies when someone accepts an honor.

In a nutshell, a commemorative speech unites and inspires people to remember and appreciate an achievement.

To write a good commemorative speech, you must highlight the positive aspects of an event.

How to Start a Commemorative Speech?

Commemorative speeches are not any different from other pieces of work. You need to prepare properly if you want yours to be effective on the final day.

Take the following steps to start your commemorative speech.

1. Brainstorm Ideas To start a commemorative speech you need to think of ideas to write the address. Keep in mind the subject and make sure to cover significant aspects that are worth discussing.

Identify five "Who," "What," "When," "Where," and "Why" questions about the topic. This can help to develop a commemorative speech topic.

When delivering your speech about a person, choose an activity that portrays the person’s values. This activity should also shows off that person's worth, and rouses emotions in the audience.

2. Identify The Purpose Before beginning your speech remember to identify why you are being chosen to pay a tribute and the speech’s purpose. Present all the reasons behind the occasion and personalities involved in your commemorative address.

3. Collect Important Information Before giving a commemorative speech, ensure you collect information that is important to share with the audience. This includes any memories or stories that you would like to share with the audience.

Commemorative Speech Outline

Organizing all this information could be a challenge. To make the content easier to understand, an outline is created. The outline provides a framework for speech preparation.

To help you write your speech, a commemorative speech outline consists of three parts:

  • Introduction

The speech introduction should be brief and include a representation of the ceremony's purpose and the speaker's role.

In the body of your speech you will organize all the information you want to share about your subject.

It is advisable to summarize the main points of your speech after it’s done. It will help the audience to remember the speech’s central purpose.

Commemorative Speech Outline Template

Here is a sample template that will help you organize your speech:

How to Write a Commemorative Speech

Once you have gathered all the necessary information, you are ready to write your speech. Follow these steps to create a touching commemorative speech:

  • When you are giving a commemorative speech, open your speech with a catchy hook. A hook is an opening sentence of the introductory paragraph. Cheer up your audience by starting out with an interesting question, a personal anecdote, or a funny joke.
  • After writing the hook, give a brief introduction. Give them a glimpse of the subject and purpose of your presentation. An introduction should draw your listeners into what you will be discussing. It also tells your listeners about the topic and lets them know why the topic is important.
  • Your speech can be remembered for highlighting the subject’s achievements, loyalty, wisdom, remarkable actions, and significance. You can accomplish this by sharing success stories and other experiences in your body paragraphs.
  • Make the audience feel connected to the subject of your speech. Keep in mind that a commemorative speech should be personal so you must write from the heart.
  • Finally, mention the major points and how the subject relates to you in the present and future.
  • When you are done, review the finished product to check for any grammar mistakes, as well as word choices that are off-the-mark.

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Commemorative Speech Topics

Choosing the right topic will add charm and magic to any speech. Also, your topic is the first thing your audience will see, so make it interesting. The following are some ideas for topics:

  • A tribute to a loving spouse
  • A tribute to caring parents
  • The sacrifice of a teacher
  • A perfect example of human courage
  • A human who overcame a challenge
  • Celebrating Islamic values
  • Praising the women’s rights movement
  • Respect makes any relationship better
  • Hard work is the only shortcut to success.
  • Teamwork improves the performance of organizations.
  • Leadership is an innate ability.

Commemorative Speech Examples

When you’re giving a speech, be sure to use the best inspirations and previous examples.

The examples listed below can give you great ideas for your speech.

Graduation Commemorative Speech Example

Commemorative Speech Example

Tips to Write a Commemorative Speech

If you write a speech for the first time, here are some tips that can help you make it powerful and compelling.

  • When writing a commemorative speech, the first thing you should think about is showing the audience how grateful you are. The words and tone you use should reflect your feelings and sense of appreciation.
  • Brainstorm topic ideas for your speech. Think of ways to relate to your audience and engage them.
  • Don't just choose a random topic. Make sure that it has some kind of message and is full of feelings.
  • Choose an appropriate topic for your audience. If your speech is to fellow students, choose a subject that students are interested in. In a commemorative speech, choose words that are clear and easy for everyone to understand.
  • Write your speech in a way that is both interesting and informative for the listeners.
  • Don't just restate what the audience already knows; share new information and ideas.

Writing inspiring talks is a challenge, but once you know what to say and how to structure your talk, the process becomes easier. If writing is not your forte and you don’t have time to produce an inspiring speech yourself, you can always buy a speech written by an expert.

Writing an inspirational speech can be overwhelming. However, if you spend some time planning the speech it becomes much easier.

But, if you still find it hard to structure your speech, you can always purchase a well-written speech from a professional.

SharkPapers.com has a team of writing professionals that has years of experience of providing exceptional writing help. They can provide customized content for speeches, essays, reports, research papers, term papers, and many more.

Order today to receive an affordable speech delivered directly to your inbox.

Donna C.

Education, Marketing

Donna writes on a broad range of topics, but she is mostly passionate about social issues, current events, and human-interest stories. She has received high praise for her writing from both colleagues and readers alike. Donna is known in her field for creating content that is not only professional but also captivating.

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Commemorative Speaking

What is a commemorative speech.

Commemorative speeches are sometimes known as "ceremonial" or "epideictic" speeches. At the most basic level, commemorative speeches pay tribute or praise a person, an institution, an event, idea, or place. Their focus is on VALUES. All societies hold certain values central to human existence: beauty, loyalty, wisdom, kindness, tradition, success, innocence, experience, and courage, for example. The commemorative speech will celebrate these values. Types of commemorative speeches include the eulogy, the speech of nomination, the speech of goodwill, the wedding toast, and the award acceptance speech.

Please note that the commemorative speech is not just informative. Thus, a speaker would not just give a biography of Ghandi, but rather would celebrate who he was, why he was worthy of praise, and encourage the audience to celebrate those values.

Commemorative Speaking and the Future

Often, the inspiring commemorative speech goes beyond celebrating past or present accomplishments to give the audience hope for the future. For example, in 1986, when Ronald Reagan gave his now famous eulogy for the Challenger astronauts, he not only praised Christa MacAuliffe and the deceased astronauts, he gave the people of the United States a message of hope for the future of the space program—that it would not die with this mission, but would continue to thrive. Consider how the speaker can link past, present, and future in a commemorative speech.

As you may have guessed, language becomes an essential part of effective commemorative speeches. Using stories, illustrations, and figurative language helps the audience to share your experience.

Note that it is difficult to pay tribute to trivial topics. Therefore, a commemorative speech on, say, “tailgating parties” would not be appropriate. This speech is about what is most important to society --honor, trust, gentleness, etc.

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Commemorative Speech: Guide to writing a powerful speech

definition of a commemorative speech

A commemorative speech is a wonderful way to pay tribute to a person or an object that holds a special significance for you. It can also be a wonderful chance for you to talk about your thoughts and emotions regarding the person or occasion you are remembering.

Are you nervous about giving a commemorative speech for the first time? Then this guide is for you! Let’s learn the process of writing and delivering an amazing speech.

What is a commemorative speech?

The commemorative speech definition refers to a type of speech that is delivered to celebrate a significant event, person, or achievement. 

Writing a speech in remembrance of someone means crafting a message that speaks to that person. These can occasionally be very emotional, and other times they contain motivational quotes. In order to make their remarks memorable for everyone, a commemorative speaker will need to have both creative ideas and an understanding of the occasion.

Mostly, students in the US are asked to give motivational commemorative speeches at the graduation ceremony. Students thank their college, instructors, families, fellow students, and so on in it.

For such occasions, you should write from the heart by recalling the past and special events. Your speech to commemorate must have a personal touch and natural flow. Commemoration speech focuses on the past, present, and future of the chosen topic. For example, loyalty, wisdom, courage, hope, success, etc. 

Now that you have completely understood the commemorative speech definition, let’s discuss some tips and strategies for how to write it effectively. 

Types of Commemorative Speeches 

Commemorative speeches come in different types. We’ve enlisted a few of them along with their purpose.

Commemorative Speech Outline 

Like other pieces of writing, this speech also follows a particular structure as well as an outline. It will help you to organize your thoughts properly. Here is the outline for commemorative speech.

Introduction

Start by greeting and grabbing the audience's attention. Then, establish the purpose of your speech. When discussing an individual, mention something interesting they've done or said. If your speech is about a specific event, talk about how it unites different groups of people, etc.

Explain about the subject’s life. Why are you making this kind of tribute, and what is the purpose of it? Why should they be honored, and why now?

Achievements

Talk about the subject's life accomplishments and milestones. Discuss their significant projects. Provide examples of their excellence and commitment. Moreover, highlight the significance of these successes and the people they benefit. In what ways do these efforts benefit us?

Discuss character and qualities 

Add the subject's unique qualities, strengths, and moral values. To highlight their character, share quotes and then talk about how their personality helps them succeed. 

Legacy and impact

Discuss the subject's long-term influence in their field or community. Also, add how their contributions have influenced others. Then, talk about the importance of their legacy and ongoing inspiration.

Conclusion 

Summarize the main points that you've discussed. Wrap up with a memorable closing statement or any quote. 

How to choose topics for commemorative speech? 

Here are a few tips for choosing a topic for speech to commemorate. 

Do online research and brainstorm the topic

There are a variety of topics available online. Videos of past memorial speeches given by celebrities at your school, etc., are also available on YouTube.

Brainstorming potential topics will allow you to develop a topic that is relevant to you and your personal situation. To make your speech and topic meaningful, consider the things you would like to share about the person. The details about a circumstance or event that you would like to share with others. Additionally, when considering the various tales to include, think about the ones that you might find interesting to hear in a memorial speech.

Understand your audience 

The audience is the most crucial component that makes any speech or piece of writing effective. They are the ones who determine whether or not the piece is worthwhile. To stay relevant to your audience, consider their personalities and areas of interest when creating your content. It's also important to know who will be present if you plan to mention someone specifically.

Deliver a meaningful message 

It is a type of informative speech in which the goal is to inform the audience about a specific topic. Even though the primary objective is to honor or celebrate something, every part of the speech needs to convey a clear and significant message.

How to start a commemorative speech? 

To deliver a motivational commemorative speech, planning is required. If your plan is sound, the speech will be excellent. Start your commemoration speech by following these steps:

  • You need to decide what to write before you start. Consider what matters for the topic you are writing about. Next, choose the subjects that will contribute to a deeper or more memorable speech.
  • Explain the rationale behind your selection for a tribute. Next, describe the goal of your speech. Describe all the causes and participants of the situation.
  • You must have information that demonstrates what matters and why to give a speech. Ideas, stories, memories, and figurative language are the most significant things.

How to write a commemorative speech? Step-by-step guide  

Writing this kind of speech requires gathering information on the topic and putting it in a logical sequence. In your memorial speech, there should be five primary points covered. 

Introduction 

Start with a compelling introduction that is relevant to the subject. Give a brief introduction of yourself and your background in the topic. To grab the attention of your audience and get them to listen to you, use a compelling hook. 

Unsure of how to proceed? Here are four quick ideas to get you started. 

Share an interesting story 

Share a compelling story or anecdote that relates to the subject to draw the audience in. This captures their interest and creates an emotional bond.

Pose an Insightful Question

Start by posing a thought-provoking question to your audience. This piques their interest and motivates them to actively participate.

Add Humor to Engage People 

In order to engage your audience and lighten the mood, sprinkle in some humor. Being genuine is essential, and even a small joke or clever comment can establish rapport and maintain attention.

Construct a Clear Scenario 

Use descriptive language to help your listeners visualize what you're saying. Encourage them to use their imagination to picture the individuals, locations, or objects associated with your subject.

These are some simple steps to get your introduction going. Let's move forward to learn the next step of how to write a commemorative speech.

You can also learn “ how to write a research paper introduction ” here.

Speech Body 

This is where you discuss the person's accomplishments, knowledge, and other things. You have the following options for doing this: 

Inform Your Audiences 

Give facts regarding the topic you're discussing. Provide background information that will enable them to relate to the topic. Speak from the heart and add a personal touch.

Be Yourself 

It's crucial that you seem natural and go with the flow rather than straining to find the right words. Making a plan in advance is one way to achieve this. Make sure you understand the relevant material, and get some practice speaking out loud. 

Mention Contributions with Respect 

Mentioning the accomplishments and contributions of a person, organization, or event is crucial when discussing it. Make bold claims to honor them. Tell stories that highlight your gratitude for their contributions and emphasize their enduring impact.

These are a few simple ways to get the body section going. 

Make Use of Powerful Metaphors and Quotes 

Do you recall anything your grandfather said to you? Which lessons stood out as having the most influence on you? Why don't you attempt to bring them up here? 

Yes, give it a shot. You'll notice that your audience becomes interested in hearing your story. It's powerful to communicate your ideas and feelings through quotes or metaphors. Provide quotations from loved ones, friends, and coworkers who have a connection to the topic. 

Choose quotations that are important and relate to your subject. If your audience starts to feel bored, it can be an effective tool for bringing them back to the present!

Reflection 

You are free to express your personal opinions and feelings about the person or occasion you are honoring in this section. This is a crucial component that makes a speech to commemorate incomplete otherwise. 

Give the person or event some thought and consider what it means to you. Be respectful when expressing your opinions and feelings on the matter. Honor their memory and the influence they had on your life. 

Speech Conclusion

Conclude by thanking the person or occasion you were speaking about and summarizing everything you had said. Add a motivational saying or a call to action at the end.  Remember to share with your audience the insights you have gained from the topic you are honoring. It's critical to leave them with a motivational message. So that's how you write an unforgettable commemoration speech! 

Commemorative Speech Topics   

Depending on the occasion or event, commemorative speech ideas fall into a number of categories. Here are some of our top recommendations for topics for commemorative speech to consider: 

  • Paying tribute to a family member
  • Paying tribute to a significant figure, dead or alive (Martin Luther King, Barack Obama)
  • Honoring a significant movement (the civil rights movement, the women's rights movement)
  • Celebrating a religion's ideals (Buddhist values)
  • Discuss the value of hope in light of NASA's Apollo 13 survival mission.
  • A parent's or teacher's selflessness, commitment, and love
  • Paying tribute to your best friend, colleague, spouse
  • An eulogy for a college professor
  • Talk about the intellectual and spiritual changes you experienced after enrolling in College.
  • The series of events leading to your family coming together with your classmates.
  • A moment when the College helped you and your team win a game
  • Talk about your war comrades to demonstrate loyalty.Paying tribute to the true leader

These are a few ideas for a commemorative speech that you could think of!

Tips to Write a Commemorative Speech  

The following four points are to be kept in mind: 

  • First, declare what you want to celebrate. You can discuss how it has affected you and other people, as well as how important it is and will always be in people's lives. To make it more relatable, you can add anecdotes and personal observations.
  • Start with an interesting fact.
  • Be clear with your words.
  • Be personal - up to a point.

Helpful Tips to Deliver a Speech

  • When delivering a speech, be sure you are completely aware of it. Know your audience and speak with confidence. Respect both the topic and the audience.
  • When someone is not interested in what they are saying, it is usually obvious to others. Their word choice, body language, and tone all convey this. It is crucial to speak from the heart when thanking the person, thing, or location you are honoring in your speech. When deciding what to say and how to say it, use your own common sense.

Frequently Asked Questions  

What is the purpose of a commemorative speech.

Its purpose is to inspire the audience and to honor a person. It highlights the person's strengths and accomplishments.

What kinds of occasions call for a commemorative speech? 

A variety of occasions, including marriages, funerals, retirement ceremonies, award ceremonies, and historical anniversaries, can call for the delivery of this speech. It can also be presented in honor of a person or group, like a sports team, a beloved teacher, or a community leader. Moreover, it should focus on good things and noteworthy events.

What are the essential components of this speech?

A good memorial speech ought to include the following:

  • A concise introduction that states the objectives
  • A strong body outlining the subject's accomplishments
  • A memorable ending that leaves an impression on the audience

How to select a topic for a memorial speech? 

Think about the audience, the occasion, and the speech's goal when selecting a topic. Choose a topic that interests you, is pertinent to the situation, and has significance for the audience. Getting knowledge and conducting research on the subject can also be beneficial in order to gain a deeper understanding of their accomplishments, life, and/or work.

Final Thoughts  

In conclusion, crafting an interesting and informative speech can be difficult. However, the process can be made much simpler by learning from this blog and having a clear understanding of the writing process.  You can write a meaningful and memorable commemorative speech by following the steps listed above. You can also get assistance from expert writers who will write a perfect speech for you. 

Students come to us for all of their writing needs. Our essay writers are here to assist you with any academic assignment, including research paper writing and coursework writing .  

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definition of a commemorative speech

Speech Writing

Commemorative Speech

Caleb S.

Commemorative Speech Definition & Complete Writing Guide

12 min read

Published on: Mar 21, 2022

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

Commemorative Speech

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Giving a speech can be nerve-wracking especially if it is for loved ones. You want to make your loved ones proud, but you don't know how!

Most people feel overwhelmed when they think about giving a speech. They worry that they won't be able to capture the essence of their loved one in words. 

Our helpful guide walks you through the process step-by-step, making it easy for you to create a commemorative speech that will make your loved ones proud.

So let's get started to learn the process of writing and delivering an amazing speech!

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What is a Commemorative Speech?

The commemorative speech definition refers to a type of speech delivered to celebrate, commemorate or remember an important event, person, or milestone. It's about honoring someone and celebrating their life and accomplishments with friends and family. 

When writing a commemorative speech, it’s important to create a message that reflects the individual in question. 

These speeches are sometimes filled with emotions and at other times, inspirational messages can motivate people.

A commemorative speaker will not only need an understanding of what they are celebrating but also creative ideas to make their words memorable for all.

Students in the United States are asked to deliver an inspiring and sentimental speech at their graduation ceremony. Students express their gratitude towards professors, family members, and classmates who helped them during college or school-related issues. 

A commemorative speech requires a focus on the past, present, and future aspects of a topic. For example, beauty, hope, loyalty, wisdom, courage, etc.

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Types of Commemorative Speeches

There are a few different types of commemorative speeches. Some of them are mentioned below. So have a look at their names and the purpose they serve. 

Want to know about other types? Check out this blog to learn about the major types of speeches !

Commemorative Speech Outline

Before starting to write, it is important to organize information by creating an outline. An outline will give your speech writing a direction which can be really helpful. 

Here is a general commemorative speech outline:

Check this commemorative speech outline examples to get a better understanding

Commemorative Speech Outline Example

Commemorative Speech Template

How to Start a Commemorative Speech?

To make an inspiring commemorative speech, you need to plan it. If you have a good plan, then the speech will be good. To start your commemoration speech, follow these steps:

1. Brainstorm Ideas 

To start your speech, you must think of what to write. Think about what is important for the subject that you're writing about. Then, decide which topics will help make your speech more emotional or memorable.

2. Identify the Purpose

Identify why you are being chosen to pay a tribute. Then, explain the purpose of your speech. Tell all the reasons behind it and who is involved in it.

3. Gather Important Information

To make a speech, you need to have information that shows what is important and why. The most important things are your ideas, memories, stories, and the figurative language you use.

How to Write a Commemorative Speech?

To write this type of speech, it’s important to gather material about the subject and arrange it in a logical order. There are five main components that should be included in your commemorative speech. 

Introduction

Begin your speech with an attention-grabbing introduction that relates to the topic. Introduce yourself and your connection to the subject. Use a powerful hook to draw your audience's attention and make them listen to you. 

Wondering how to do this? Here are four easy tips to do this… 

Share a Captivating Story or Anecdote

Engage your audience by sharing a compelling story or anecdote that resonates with the topic. This establishes an emotional connection and captivates their attention.

Pose a Thought-Provoking Question

Start with a question that prompts your audience to ponder. This stimulates their curiosity and encourages active engagement with your speech.

Inject Humor for Engagement

Add a touch of humor to lighten the mood and captivate your audience. Authenticity is key, and even a subtle joke or witty remark can create a connection and sustain interest.

Visualize a Vivid Scenario

Paint a vivid picture in the minds of your listeners by using descriptive language. Engage their imagination, allowing them to visualize the people, places, or things related to your topic.

These are some easy ways to start your introduction. Now let’s move to learn the next steps of writing a commemorative speech…

This is the part where you will talk about the person's achievements, wisdom, and other things. You can do this in the following ways… 

Educate Your Audience

Provide information about the subject you’re talking about. Share background details that help them connect with the subject matter. Let your speech carry a personal touch, speaking from the heart.

When delivering a speech, it's important that you appear natural and flow with the talk instead of struggling for words. Being well-prepared is one way to do this.

Make sure that you are familiar with the applicable material and practice speaking aloud. 

Respectfully Mention Contributions

When you’re talking about a person, organization, or event, it’s important to mention their contributions and accomplishments. Give bold statements to pay tribute to them. Share anecdotes that showcase appreciation for their contributions and emphasize their lasting influence.

These are some easy ways to start your introduction. Now let’s move to learn the next steps of writing a commemorative speech… 

Use Compelling Quotes and Metaphors

Do you remember something that your grandfather told you? Were some of the lessons particularly impactful for you? So why don't you try to mention them here? 

Yes, give it a try and you will see your audience getting attracted to listening to your story. 

Using quotes or metaphors is an effective way of expressing your thoughts and feelings. Include quotes from people associated with the subject, such as family members, friends, or colleagues. 

Select quotes that are relevant and meaningful to your topic. It helps to portray emotion and can be used as a powerful tool to draw attention if your audience feels bored with your speech!

This is part of the speech where you’re allowed to share personal thoughts and feelings about the person or event you’re commemorating. This is an important part without which a commemorative speech is incomplete. 

Take the time to reflect on what the person or event has meant to you. Share your thoughts and feelings about the subject in a respectful manner. Pay tribute to their legacy and the impact they made on your life. 

Close off your speech by summarizing everything you’ve said, as well as expressing gratitude for the person or event that you’re talking about. End with an inspiring quote or a call to action. 

Don’t forget to give your audience a message that you gained from the subject you commemorated. It is important to leave them with a message for motivation. 

So, this is how you can write a compelling commemorative speech! But before starting your speech, an outline is necessary. Continue reading to learn about speech outlines.

Free Commemorative Speech Examples

To make an impressive speech, you can get help from previous commemorative speeches written on the same or related topic. Below are some examples of speeches that you can use to get ideas for your own.

Commemorative Speech About Mom

Commemorative Speech Example Best Friend

Short Commemorative Speech Examples

Commemorative Speech on a famous person

Commemorative Speech Example PDF

Commemorative Speech for Parents

Commemorative Speech about Dad

Commemorative Speech Topics

The following are some interesting commemorative speech ideas that you can choose for a quick start. 

  • Paying tribute to a teaching staff
  • Paying tribute to human courage 
  • Paying tribute to your siblings
  • Tribute to an eminent personality
  • Paying tribute to spouse
  • Paying tribute to your best friend
  • Paying tribute to a colleague
  • Paying tribute to the civil rights movement
  • Celebrating the accomplishments of a trusted leader 
  • Saluting military service and sacrifice 
  • Paying tribute to my parents for making me the person I am today
  • Overcoming adversity to achieve your goals 

These are some examples of commemorative speech topics that you can consider! If you need a better idea of how to deliver a commemorative speech, check out this video:

Factors to Remember While Writing a Commemorative Speech

The three most important things to remember when starting your commemorative speech are: 

  • Start by stating what you want to celebrate . You can talk about how it has impacted you and others and how it will continue to be important in people's lives. You can include personal observations and anecdotes to make the speech more relatable.
  • When giving a speech, make sure that you have all your facts straight . Speak confidently and know who your audience is. Respect the subject you are talking about and the audience too.
  • People can usually tell when the speaker is not interested in what they are saying. It shows in their tone, body language, and word choice. When giving a speech, it is important to use your heart to express gratitude for the person, event, or place you are commemorating. Use your head to think about what you should say and how you should say it.

In conclusion, writing an interesting and informative speech can be a challenging task. But having a clear understanding of the writing process and learning from this blog can make the process much easier. 

By following the outlined steps, and taking help from the provided examples and topics, you can create a thoughtful and impactful commemorative speech. And if you still find it difficult, remember that you can use our AI essay generator to help you create a memorable speech.

Our top essay writing service  helps students with all of their writing needs. Whether you need help with speech writing or any other academic assignments, our essay writers will help you out.  

So why wait, contact our essay writing service now!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of events that may require a commemorative speech.

Commemorative speeches can be given for a wide range of events, such as weddings, funerals, retirement ceremonies, award ceremonies, and historical anniversaries. They can also be given to honor an individual or group, such as a beloved teacher, a community leader, or a sports team.

To write a good commemorative speech, the writer should talk about positive things and memorable events.

What are the key elements of a commemorative speech?

A good commemorative speech should have the following:

  • A clear introduction that establishes the purpose of the speech
  • A strong body that outlines the accomplishments of the subject
  • A memorable conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on the audience

How do I choose a topic for a commemorative speech?

When choosing a topic for a commemorative speech, consider the purpose of the speech, the occasion, and the audience. Select a subject that is relevant to the occasion, meaningful to the audience, and that you feel passionate about. It may also be helpful to research and gather information about the subject to develop a deeper understanding of their life, work, or achievements.

What is the fundamental purpose of a commemorative speech?

The purpose of a speech is to make people happy and celebrate something. It can be about anything, but it is most often given by someone who has done something great.

What are the 10 types of speech?

The following are the most common 10 types of speeches. 

  • Entertaining speech
  • Persuasive speech
  • Informative speech
  • Demonstrative speech
  • Oratorical speech
  • Motivational speech
  • Impromptu speech
  • Forensic speech
  • Debate speech
  • Special occasion speech

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Commemorative speech topic helper

How to choose the best commemorative topic

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 12-08-2023

The ideal commemorative speech topic is one that inspires your audience. It enthralls, uplifts and whirls them through a journey of transformation.

Choosing the right one goes a long way toward ensuring that, by the time you tuck your cue cards back into your pocket at the end of your speech, you'll leave your audience feeling satisfied and enriched.

Choosing the best speech topic

But how do you choose exactly the right commemorative speech idea?

For instance ...

Could the speech be based on the red field poppy?

The one that's been used as a symbol since the end of World War One to honor soldiers who died in battle - particularly soldiers from UK, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand?

Perhaps talking about the background of the red poppy as a symbol would be interesting.

definition of a commemorative speech

According to this Wikipedia article the poem In Flanders Field  about the Second Battle of Ypres fought in Belgium  was the most well known poem of its era.

It immortalized the poppy, making it a natural choice as an emblem. It needed no introduction. People already knew what it stood for.  

Hang on. Slow down.

It's a great topic. And yes, it is very interesting, but wait!

Don't move so fast.

Choosing from your audience's point of view

The process of getting the best commemorative speech topic begins, not with your choice of subject, but with:

  • understanding the special characteristics of a commemorative speech,
  • understanding the purpose of the occasion,
  • and your audience.

Once you've grasped those choosing your topic will be so much easier. That's because when you've considered them carefully, you'll be more likely to make the best decision.

Let's focus on them now.

Exactly what is a commemorative speech?

Commemorative speeches do as their title suggests: they commemorate.

They celebrate, praise, or pay tribute to memories. These could be memories of a person, a group, an institution, a thing, an event or, even an idea.

See the definition

Definition of the word commemorate

What is the purpose behind a speech of this type?

The goal/purpose of the commemorative speech (or tribute speech) is always to unite the audience.

You want to bring them together, to inspire them, to re-dedicate and refocus their energies through honoring and remembering the past.

Ideally after they've heard what you have to say they'll be filled to the brim with positivity and hope.

What are the occasions where you'd expect to hear a commemorative speech?

Examples of occasions calling for this type of speech are anniversaries, reunions, dedications, national and international remembrance days and funeral or memorial services.

I have some of these types of speeches on my site. For instance,  there are more than 70 eulogies or funeral speeches   people from all over the world have sent to me to post.  These are private commemorative speech examples, meaning they were initially written for a group of family and friends. 

In contrast the commemorative speeches marking for instance, Memorial or Independence Day, are intended for a much larger public audience.

Do your research about the event

To help yourself make the best choice of topic find out as much as you can about the event and the organization behind it.

Talk to the event managers or whoever is in charge about what they'd like you to focus on.

If it's a regular event, find out what previous speakers have spoken about or ask folk who've been in the audience what has been successful and why.

Who is your audience?

Consider who is listening to you.

  • Why are they there?
  • What unites them? Eg., race, gender, age, nationality, socio-economics, religion, health concerns, the same employer, hobbies, sports ...
  • What experiences have they shared? Eg., working together to establish something important, something bigger than themselves, a specific major event: an earthquake, a shooting...
  • What do they expect from you?
  • What do they hope for?
  • What do you know about their values or beliefs?
  • What are their concerns or worries?

And now that you know more about the speech context you're ready to start thinking about what your commemorative speech topic could be.

Highlight and honor qualities

Image: drawing of red field poppies. Text: Lest we forget.

Because this type of speech is more about  honoring the qualities  enabling a person, organization or group to achieve what they did, the speech is NOT primarily a recital of 'did-this-and-then-did-that' facts.

Instead the facts, when they are recalled, are a backdrop used to demonstrate or illustrate the qualities being celebrated.

So in thinking about this, what themes or values will you focus on? Use your knowledge of the event and the audience to guide your choice.

Commemorative speech topic themes

Any of the following themes are suitable.

Choosing material to fit your theme

Your next job is to select material to best illustrate the qualities you've chosen.

  • Will your commemorative speech topic retell stories about past events and people already known to the audience?
  • Will you research history to find inspiring events, stories or quotations to echo, reinforce and add to your speech?
  • Will you use your own experiences?

The answer to those three questions is YES.

The most satisfying speech draws from all three elements and combines them eloquently.

Would you like to read an example of commemorative speech?

Vincent Van Gogh - Purple iris

Here is a tribute speech for my Mother , Iris.

You're most welcome to use it as a springboard for the commemorative speech you have to write.

Or you can find out more about the special qualities of tribute speeches with links to well known examples.

6 attributes of a great commemorative speech

In summary, a great commemorative/tribute speech:

  • is in tune with the audience's values
  • is sincere and relevant
  • uses the language of oratory (figurative language) to capture the hearts of its hearers
  • includes story telling
  • invokes all the senses - sight, sound, touch, smell & taste
  • leaves the audience uplifted and inspired

Links to kick start your imagination

If you're looking for examples of people, events or speeches to inspire your commemorative speech topic choice you'll find a wonderful collection of resource links in the box below.

Resource links for commemorative speeches

  • United Nations list of international days and observances
  • Google Arts and Culture - an amazing all-encompassing collection of everything - a glorious time-sink!
  • Major philosophers and their big ideas
  • Famous philosophical quotes
  • Best contemporary literary fiction - (mostly late 20th Century)
  • The Guardian: 100 best books of the 21th Century
  • Famous sports people
  • Inventions timeline from prehistoric times to present - links to inventors & inventions
  • Top 10 Inventors - People who changed the world
  • People who changed the world in the 20th Century
  • CNN Heroes - Everyday People Changing the World
  • Famous women
  • The TED Talks - Ideas worth spreading. Talks by the world's leading thinkers & doers
  • Top 100 American Speeches
  • List of famous speeches through the ages with ongoing links
  • Return to top of commemorative speech topic page

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definition of a commemorative speech

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Commemorative Speech

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Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Commemorative speech topics tutorial including seven examples on what you could deliver as observation, memory, monument in words or even celebrate in an salut:

Focus on the values of life and past, present, and future of society. For example hope, trust, kindness, courage, loyalty, wisdom, disappointment, camaraderie, dignity, success, and tradition are good public speaking speech topics.

It is a ceremonial address of honor and celebration of the values of a person, group, an institution, a place, event, idea or subject. It’s more than a tribute verbal testimonial that celebrates achievements or essential accomplishments.

commemorative speech

  • To give the audience hope for the future.
  • To uplift the listeners’ feelings and emotions.
  • To heighten their admiration for the person, group, institution, event or idea being praised.
  • To express feelings, arouse sentiments.

A special form is the eulogy including commemorative speech topics to praise and honor a person who died.

Use this list below to tickle your imagination. It will help you effectively to sort out, organize and plan in advance spare thoughts. Answer all the questions that are appropriate to you.

And apply the answers to your subject, the occasion and the feelings of the public. In fact it is an praising example.

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Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

This commemorative idea is meant to grab the attention and achieve feelings of recognition right at the start of your commemorating speech. Some ideas for a tribute:

  • a person – Describe how the person you honored always takes care of the pets in your neighbourhood
  • a place – Describe the natural world wonder you commemorate, and how it inspires thousands of visitors to protect nature in their local community.
  • an event – Describe how the Superbowl unites many fans, what happens at the big day, what it means to them.
  • a group – Describe that the baseball team being honored became champion because of their co-operation.
  • Why does your subject deserve to be honored?
  • Why this kind of tribute?
  • Why at this moment, why at this occasion?
  • Refer to the particular contributions, achievements or merits. Give concrete examples. E.g. What has been accomplished, in what way?
  • Build in commemorative speech topics describing why the efforts, impressions, achievements are such a success.
  • Who or what will benefit?
  • Why is this way of thinking or acting valuable to us?
  • What specific values can we distract and which ones make the difference
  • How can we also apply the values?
  • Why do we need to apply them too?

Describe the values in such a way that all attendees can empathize and re-experience these feelings. If the commemorated subject is a person, then ask yourself for example: what can we learn of the subjects’ way of approaching things in his personal or professional life?

  • Link the previous commemorative speech topics of the important values to the common feelings and thoughts that you and the audience share.
  • Illustrate them with a short story, anecdote, facts or a testimony of a symbolic personal experience with the subject.
  • Conclude with a memorable summary of the commemorative speech topics you have been talking about. Help the audience members to remember your main message.

Especially emphasize the values that are being celebrated in you talk. Use a attention getting oneliner that captures the whole idea.

Finally, I list here the three most important tips about this type of speechwriting and on delivering. They are about the language and the style of the presentation:

  • Use expressive and elegant language.
  • Formulate in an eloquent serious style.
  • Avoid exaggerating expressions in your commemorative idea.

Multifunctional Checklist

I. GENERATE FEELINGS OF RECOGNITION BY TELLING ABOUT:

a. Iconographic or key activities, feature or aspects?

• person: • group: • event: • place:

b. Values and merits?

c. Highlights?

d. Achievements and accomplishments?

e. Particular contributions?

f. The character or features?

II. NOW FILL IN EXAMPLES IN THIS COMMEMORATIVE SPEECH TOPIC CHECKLIST:

a. Short story? b. Anecdotes? c. Facts? d. Testimonies? e. Related personal experiences?

III. MAKE A TIE TO THE AUDIENCE IN YOUR COMMEMORATION SPEECH TOPIC

a. Can you tie the examples noted above to the common feelings and thoughts of your audience? b. Why should we honor her or him? c. In what way are the points mentioned above in I. valuable to us? d. What can we learn from the person’s behavior or the features? e. In what way could we benefit or what are advantages?

IV. WHAT SHOULD WE DO TO APPLY?

a. In case of a person: How can we act like the honored person does/did? b. How can we improve our efforts? c. Is there a way of approaching things that we could alter?

How To Use This Commemorative Speech Checklist?

  • Fill in empty spaces where you think it’s suitable for the occasion, the contents of your inspiring tribute commemorative speech topic.
  • Fill in rough clues, note them in short keyword sentences. Not more for this moment.
  • Sort out the things you’ve written in the speech outline.
  • Write your commemorative address. Keep focused on:
  • First, establish recognition, mention situations and moments everyone recognize;
  • Second, examples, proof, evidence. Reason(s) why we honor and celebrate, and learn from her/him/it;
  • Third, tie to the audience;
  • Fourth, things your listeners should do. The action step at the end.

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Commemorative Speech: Definition And Detailed Writing Guide

by Robert Pattinson | Jan 19, 2023 | Student Guide | 0 comments

Do you need ideas on a Commemorative speech ? If yes, then this blog is for you. Speech writing is a way of indirect communication with the audience. And thus, it should be effective so that the audience can be impressed with the speech. Today, this blog will be an ultimate guide on commemorative speeches. So, let’s start with the definition.

Table of Contents

Commemorative Speech Definition

A commemorative speech which is also known as a ceremonial speech is given as an honor to the public. The purpose of this speech is to celebrate a particular event of a person, group, or company. Here the speaker gives the speech to express gratitude, paying tribute to the events or the person. The speech is about giving inspiration indirectly by praising a situation, people, or an event. So, the inspiring commemorative speech should have good words. Meanwhile, you can discover here about the Do my online class services.

It is a formal speech, and values are the major commemorative speeches pay tribute topic here. For instance, rather than just providing a biography of Albert Einstein, the speaker would calibrate who he was and why he was deserving of praise, inspiring the audience to do the same.

Commemorative speeches, like other speech styles, need a deep understanding of the content, writing skill, and audience. Don’t worry. We will cover all your queries in this article. Let’s now look at several types of effective commemorative speeches from the section below. Also, if you want to discover the tips to get the best study spot at home, click here.

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Different types of commemorative speech.

It is a fact that if you want to impress your audience, you need a good commemorative speech topic. And, for that, you need to understand the different types of this speech. So, here it is..

Award-acceptance Speech

The speech is also known as an acceptance speech. On exceptional events, this style of commemorative speech is used to express thanks to winners. Its primary objective is to show gratitude for the work done by those in charge of planning the event and assisting you in receiving the honor. Also, you can learn here about College Homework .

Nomination Speech

This is a speech that is delivered at a political event to announce a candidate for office.

A Eulogy Speech

This speech honors the life of the deceased during a funeral or memorial event.

Wedding Toast Speech

This speech offers or does not provide the couple and presents a quick overview of their life to the wedding guests. You will find this kind of commemorative speech examples on Google.

It is a speech given to introduce oneself to a person, group, organization, or even nation to build a deep bond with the audience.

We hope that after going through the different types, it will not be hard for you to find good commemorative speech topics to impress and give the audience hope with best wishes, isn’t it? Now that you know the definition and types of commemorative speech, it is time to discuss starting the speech. Meanwhile, you can follow here to learn more about Popcorn Reading .

What Tips To Follow To Start A Commemorative Speech?

As already said, it is not an informative speech. Thus, you must give a speech in a way, so that sounds like you are celebrating the event or showing gratitude to a person or a situation. Yes, for that, you much go through different commemorative speech ideas.

Strong planning must go into the writing of a speech for it to be presented well. The steps that should be followed while drafting a speech for a graduation ceremony or other event are as follows:

Pick Good Ideas

When writing a commemorative speech, the first step is to consider the topics that may be covered. You should explore only those topics that are worth a conversation. Also, the ideas should be original and pertinent. Identify the 5WH questions: Who, What, When, Why, Where, and How to evaluate the relevance. Also, get the idea here about Who Invented Exams .

Determine Your Objective

Explain why you were chosen to give the tribute and what the speech would be used for, such as a graduation speech presented in a college. In your speech, include a list of all the participants and reasons for the occasion of commemorative speaking. Simultaneously, you must go with several details in an informative speech . Our experts have produced all details here.

Obtain Crucial Information

Gather essential facts that support the purpose of the tribute speech. Such material in a speech like this contains concepts, recollections, tales, etc., crucial to convey to the audience. You can go through the previous commemorative speeches by the people to learn the figurative language used by them. Always remember that public speaking should be respectful enough to impress the audience.

Use Quotations And Metaphors

Consider opening your speech with a metaphor or quote rather than just starting it to avoid giving a typical and monotonous introduction.

Following after knowing the tips to consider starting a commemorative speech, you should know the proper outline for a perfectly crafted speech. So, the below passage is all about it. Let’s start then—

How To Write A Commemorative Speech?

Whether you give a farewell speech or retirement speech to someone, following an outline is crucial if you want to engage your audience members. So, here are the factors you can follow for the commemorative speech writing—-

Create A Hook First

Select an engaging starting line for your speech, such as a phrase, quotation, or tale, to grab the audience’s attention.

Write A Short Introduction

The beginning of a speech is the introduction. You describe the topic and your motivation for talking about it here.

Compose The Body Paragraphs

You should discuss the person’s accomplishments, knowledge, and other qualities. With them, you may discuss your accomplishments and experiences. Make the audience feel as though they can relate to what you are saying.

Create A Viable Conclusion

When you wrap up your speech at the conclusion, be sure to discuss how the topic impacts individuals both now and in the future. You may go through some senior project ideas for an overall concept of what they involve.

The goal of a commemorative speech is to make the audience remember. Therefore, you should speak your mind and encourage others to feel the same way. These speeches might be emotionally charged at times, or they can be packed with knowledge, inspiration, and optimism. So, while writing, you should be careful about such things. The complete guide on how to write a claim.

Some Additional Tips To Make Your Commemorative Speech Excellent

Incorporate Humor Into Your Speech

Your primary objectives should be keeping your audience engaged and capturing their full attention. Therefore, if you can make them laugh within the first few seconds, you will succeed.

Make Sure To Include Your Own Flair

Describe the influence the event or award has had on your life and the lives of your friends and how much you will always value it.

Respect The Audience

Make sure all of your ideas are clear, pay close attention to how your audience responds, and get to know them and their areas of interest.

Share Your Sincerest Thoughts With Them And Give Them Your Full Attention

As you express your sincere thanks for the person, the event, or the thing you remember, use your intellect to consider your comments carefully. Make sure that your speech is as intelligent and acceptable as you can. By doing this, you would have gained knowledge on how to write a commemorative speech.

The audience is the most crucial component in any successful writing or speech. They are the ones who determine if the work is worthwhile or not. You should build your work around the audience’s interests and characteristics to stay relevant to them. Additionally, you need to be aware of the attendees if you’re going to address somebody in your speech specifically. Finally, it’s time to learn about some inspiring commemorative speech topics.

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Different And Interesting Commemorative Speech Ideas

There are many different types of commemorative speeches. Some of them are as follows—-

  • The leaders’ ultimate sacrifice.
  • An illustration of a warrior human.
  • How can one overcome obstacles in life?
  • Moments of inspiration for humanitarian movements.
  • The importance of respect in any human connection.
  • Speech of farewell to someone leaving a job or going away.
  • Greetings on an anniversary in honor of a devoted pair.
  • Milestone for a long-term employee’s years of service.
  • Celebrating a religion’s principles.
  • Discuss the significance of hope.
  • A lecturer at your college is being eulogized.
  • Talk about how beginning college changed you academically and spiritually.
  • The chain of occurrences that resulted in your class becoming a family.
  • Reminiscing about your granny
  • women who improved the state of the world.
  • Speech by the bride’s father.
  • Speech by the maid of honor.
  • Best technological developments.
  • How do you define freedom?
  • Remember the lives lost on 9/11.
  • Rejoice about the acceptance of homosexual marriage.
  • Thanks to the parents.
  • A device’s past.
  • defending civic rights
  • Respect improves any connection.
  • The only shortcut to success is hard effort.
  • Organizational performance is enhanced through teamwork.
  • It is a holy mission to teach.
  • A feeling of independence is priceless.
  • What expectations mean.

In the meantime, learn how to write a memorable retirement speech .

Commemorative speeches are demanding since they are frequently given to large crowds. To write a powerful speech, you need to consider various things. Therefore, when thinking about them, make an effort to clear your thoughts of all the issues. Just pay attention to the speech. Check it again when you’re done. That is how to deliver a speech that is remarkable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of commemorative speeches.

A commemorative speech is given to uplift the crowd and honor a person. It emphasizes the person’s accomplishments and best traits.

Where Do You Deliver Commemorative Speeches?

On special events like anniversaries, funerals, memorial services, and reunions, speeches are delivered in remembrance. Writers of commemorative speeches should focus on memorable moments and incredible things in their speeches.

How Should A Speech Be Structured?

Making an outline allows for the information’s organizing. The framework of the speech is provided by this blueprint. The body of the speech occurs after the introduction. Arrange information that is important to the audience to be shared, such as concepts, events, tales, experiences, and recollections.

What should I write my commemorative speech about?

Commemorative speeches are mainly ceremonial or epideictic, so you can choose any topic related to an event to share your emotions. You may write a speech on love, kindness, gentleness, bravery, honor, or any such feeling. Also, you can write a speech about your cherished memories.

What is an example of a ceremonial speech?

Ceremonial speeches include every type of epideictic oratory, whether for awards, tributes, retirement, wedding, graduation, etc.

Is a commemorative speech a special occasion speech?

Commemorative speeches are for ceremonies or to pay tribute to a personality, an institution, or an idea. We can thus refer to these as special-occasion speeches.

What are the best appreciation words for a speech?

Some good appreciation words for speech are the following:

  • You are an inspiration.
  • I am grateful to you.
  • You are a blessing.
  • I appreciate your support.
  • Do accept my sincere regards.

What is the difference between a commemorative and a tribute speech?

Tribute speeches are also commemorative speeches: they praise a person, an idea, or an institution. So, all tribute speeches are commemorative speeches, but all commemorative speeches are not tribute speeches.

What is the difference between commemorative speeches and informative speeches?

Commemorative speeches express feelings and emotions, while informative speeches communicate specific information on relevant topics. Informative speeches are factual.

What are the eight forms of a ceremonial speech?

The eight popular forms of ceremonial speeches are an introduction, acceptance, dedication, presentation, toast, roast, farewell, and eulogy.

What is a memorial speech called?

A memorial speech at a funeral or in memory of an incident or person is called a eulogy.

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Commemorative Speech Writing: Step By Step Guide

A commemorative speech is one that is given so as to honor and remember someone or an event, often celebrating their life and achievements.

According to experts at my homework help , this speech offers a chance for the speaker to share tales about this person or event, highlighting both the major accomplishments as well as more personal qualities and moments that had an impact to people around them.

Table of Contents

Definition of a commemorative speech.

A commemorative speech is meant to be meaningful; it should be inspirational to listeners and as well make them feel a connection with the subject being honored.

Many a times, this type of speech is given at memorial services or other events where people gather to honor someone’s memory or achievements.

This kind of speech can also be used at award ceremonies when recognizing excellence in particular fields or categories such as business, science, sports, etc.

The goal, for instance, is often to evoke emotion while reminding us the reason we should remember this person or event positively and how they influenced our lives either directly or indirectly.

Reasons for Giving a Commemorative Speech

There are variety of reasons why a person might give a commemorative speech which includes appreciating the legacy of someone who has passed away; honoring a significant anniversary; appreciating contributors; or dedicating something vital, such as new buildings or monuments.

Paying tribute to people involved in great achievements like space exploration, etc.

These speeches, usually incorporate components of humor to remind everyone that even if somebody is not with us physically, their spirit lives among us forever!

Significantly, these speeches are about remembering individuals by recounting facts and also invoking feelings inspired by their presence and going through thought-provoking observations.

Overview of the Step-by-Step Guide

This guide will enable you to compose your own commemorative speech. It assists you select a suitable topic, research facts about it, create an outline, and before delivering your speech you plan according to the guidelines.

Unlike an  impromptu speech , you can prepare by speaking out loud before time; speaking with confidence and enthusiasm; and winding up with a lasting impression.

You will acquire knowledge on how to produce potent content that will educate your audience and move them emotionally. Using this procedure, it will guarantee that you produce quality outcome no matter the occasion!

Selecting Your Topic

A commemorative speech is a unique form of communication whereas it is vital to select the appropriate subject so as to get it correctly. It should be a motivating topic that passes an appealing message to your audience.

An important phase in the process is brainstorming; make sure you produce something relevant and special, for this will act as the basis starting point for all your preparations henceforth. The circumstantial analysis stage has started!

Some essential steps include:

1) Look into their effects on the society and others.

2)  Bring together Quotes, Data, Facts, and narratives.

3) Question individuals Who Knew Them About Personal Traits

4) Converse with Historians/Experts in Relevant Fields

5) Obtain a go ahead (if Necessary)

6) Seek Internet Resources

7) Explore Accomplishments

8) Carry out Internet research

7) Analyze the achievements that was as a result of their contributions.

Search for either visible or less obvious effects, such as awards won, recognition from international organizations, newspaper articles, etc.  Nelson Mandela , is a fantastic example, he was acknowledged not just in South Africa but also across the world for his fight against the apartheid!

Gather Quotes, Statistics, Facts, and Anecdotes

When presenting commemorative speeches,it is advisable to also add quotes and facts; this assists in establishing credibility while also provides proof  supporting your assertions. Credible sources, like books, interviews with people who knew the person being honored, newspaper articles, and so on should be used.

To avoid rumors, ensure they are factual renditions of events . Later, search for fascinating anecdotes in relation to the topic. Maybe, friends recall some incidents in specific that unfold the personal side better than any other record. Even the entertaining ones do add flavor without lowering the status.

Ask People Who Knew Them About Personal Qualities

Communicate one on one with individuals who were close with the person or event you are celebrating and inquire about personal details such as their interests, life philosophy, values, etc.

Get in touch with workmates, family members, age mates, and anyone who worked closely with him or her if possible. Not only will you hear some notable tales but also take a brief look into his or her life through personal experiences that will be told!

Talk to Historians/ and Experts in Relevant Fields

If there is need to, converse with historians and conduct research on what transpired before the vital occasions being honored. For instance, if you know who came up with something, get to know about the timeline that indicates how it came into existence.

Listeners are provided with a more comprehensive interpretation of the subject matter at hand instead of the common one-sentence illustration most of us know! Experts are also huge providers of details and at times contain some distinctive schemes to present during an interview.

Obtain Permissions (if Necessary)

One needs to know that in some circumstances, permission is needed so that specific items may be used so as to abide by the law.

This consists of images and song recordings that belong to someone else and are copyrighted by the label.

For the use of some things such as videos, clips, and speeches at a memorial service, specific permission should be obtained. If you don’t, you could land into trouble with the law, more so if your aim is to generate money.

Use internet resources

We can access a very large source of information swiftly and with much ease, courtesy of the Internet. This simplifies life by getting resources rapidly and easily. Ensure the information is accurate by cross checking the sources since the internet is populated with wicked individuals that pass inaccurate information without being identified.

Fake news assists websites with irritating content in getting more clicks, views, and income by circulating a tale.

As a result of this, online information should not be your only source of information when you are searching for the truth. Write with moral intentions, not to lead your audience astray!

Move to the next phase when you are ready. Explore achievements highlight important milestones people, groups, and events that attract attention to themselves continue with a successful trip.

If you let others come up with a narrative around your success, the information you want to pass clearly will resurface.

Standpoint receivers were paying attention to a motivating work of literature that brought together mesmerizing tales, reasoning progression of factual information, and any other thing that resulted to the remembrance on their side.

You may attract attention to the company’s founding, wedding, and birth dates. Circumstances are critical because it explains the intensity of the factors that influenced actions and the desired result. Quotations, facts, and stories are effectively used to draw connections between the past and present.

Give the essence of grandeur remembering important moments forever frozen time indelible mark hearts minds can’t deny deleted opts to fail to remember the remains imprinted collective responsiveness commemorates heritage eternity go forth and construct remarkable magnificently ageless homage honoree worthy successful happy undertakings same regard adoration paid days long ago awed marvel expressed blessings showered upon kindred spirits shall never come to an end.

How To Write A Commemorative Speech: Writing Process

Now that you have conducted your research and narrowed down the subject matter of your speech, it’s time to begin the process of writing!

Below are some vital steps you should take into consideration in order to come up with a perfect memorial speech:

A. Creating an Outline

Before you begin your speech, come up with a well-structured outline so as to ensure that all the sections go hand in hand perfectly. Here are two major aspects that will assist in creating the foundation for content building:

Arrange your views. Commence by noting down all the thoughts and themes that come to mind.

Then, ahead of time, try and find the perfect approach to pick information to make the transitions between hypothesis swift. Finally, contemplate the perfect technique to engage listeners, focus on the key points, and pass your message.

Make a note of tales or anecdotes you came across while conducting your research study that might be helpful in emphasizing an argument!

Outline Structure: At the moment you have acquired all the information, go through it, arrange it from the most important (beginning, middle, end), and begin to understand the whole picture. Once satisfied with your decision, make clear, unambiguous remarks.

Concentrate on each part, ensure you are well conversant with the information, and make an effort to display the desired overall impression. Come up with a single sentence summary before completing the first draft.

B. Planning What You Will Say

Besides establishing structure in place, it is important to prepare language use and tone of speech for the proper event and target audience. Other things you need to put into consideration ahead of time in order to prepare for delivery include:

Language Selection: Select words cautiously and ensure they are age-appropriate. Cease using swear words or slang in circumstances where they make no sense or are inappropriate.

This might interfere with the significance of what you are saying and display that you disrespect your listeners. Instead, attempt to be eloquent while still being understandable.

Given the mix and match, put into consideration whether a serious or comical tone would be more relevant. Pause if you feel like cheering the mood.

Reflect on the more challenging parts of your journey, but, as I earlier said, be cautious so as not to cross paths or by accident upset someone there.

When delivering public speeches, always choose the length of your speech, try and estimate how long you have and schedule your time appropriately. Anything more than 5 minutes, depending on the nature and depth of the topic, may begin to lose interest, easily get out of topic, and lose its effect after a certain duration has passed.

Take keen note of what you can and cannot say, mind the person who is listening, and ask questions rather than pushing your thoughts down their throats.

C. Presentation Preparation

Before giving the vital practice presentation, peruse it a couple of times. Cover crucial pointers already discussed in previous sections.

The guide simplifies it in an amicable environment, most commonly for individuals who are anxious about the huge work before them. Tips for enhancing preparation and delivery are talked about below.

D. Delivery Tips

When your speech is completed and ready to be delivered, the final step before presenting it is to rehearse. It may look like a dull task, but it’s vital if you want your delivery to proceed successfully.

– Make Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact with your listeners assists you pass your argument across more efficiently, frequently move your eyes away from the paper occasionally to scan the crowd and observe their reaction.

Breathing pauses presents individuals an opportunity to comprehend what is being conveyed. They also occur between adjustments. Key express aim, attracting attention without outshining the presentation itself.

– Vary Volume & Pace

Changing the speed of how you speak can add variety, attentiveness, and expectation for what you are about to say. You may also alter the volume to make some sections louder or lower.

The sincere emotions you depict come to life when you feel strong enough feelings to generate the anticipated response. It’s a memorable encounter never to be forgotten, as a result you’ll share time-tested, lifelong memories with your loved ones.

– Make Use of Gestures

Finally, make an effort of enhancing your stage presence using physical activities and body language. Utilize your hands and arms and sway side to side to stress on points, and copy other similar approach if you desire to use visual aids.

Using a board pointer assists individuals in interpreting what is being discussed, which is suitable for a point when every person is anticipating huge prosperity that will be in their memory forever. Ending with “Their legacy will live on forever” can be very touching and uplifting!

It is vital to list out your references in any commemorative speech so as to give appropriate credit where it is deserved.

Sources Used

List sources for any quotes or facts used in the speech; this could be anything from books, newspapers, websites, or even interviews.

Also, make it clear if you have been granted a go ahead to use specific images or audio recordings in your exhibition.

When citing these sources, make sure to include both the author and title of every single piece, as well as the date it was published (if applicable). This will assist to substantiate allegations made throughout your speech and accord its content more credibility!

Let us handle your commemorative speech essays

We recognize the significance commemorative speeches are and how they can end up leaving your audience impressed for a long period of time. That is why our “ do my homework ” service is are here, to assist our clients with this essential task! Our expertise team of writers is devoted in delivering high quality services that will result in a remarkable speech with an effect.

Here is what we offer:

  • Research – We collect all the significant information required for developing your flawless speech.
  • Outline Development: We generate well-structured outlines to make sure that all components stream seamlessly in unison.
  • Content Establishment: Our professional  homework helpers  are in a position to generate fascinating speeches in a reasonable timeframe.
  • Presentation Tips – We provide presentation preparation guidelines together with vital delivery strategies such as maintaining eye contact and using gestures efficiently. You can also get  PowerPoint presentation assignment  help at myhomeworkhelp.org.
  • References: We ensure to properly list out any references included all through the research stage of the process of writing.
  • Homework Help: Our essay writing website will also deliver a wide range of other services including  math homework help , Psychology assignment help,  discussion board homework help , among others.

Frequently Asked Questions

A fantastic memorable speech should be well-organized and fascinating, and it should emphasize on the most relevant aspects of the topic or event in concern. or occurrence under review. It should also attempt to generate emotional response from its listeners through strong phrases, tales and anecdotes.

It depends on the occasion and aim of the speech, but the speeches many a times tend to lose their effectiveness past minutes.

Some essential guidelines are to rehearse your presentation loudly before delivering it, maintaining eye contact with your audience through the presentation, altering your volume and tempo all through, and, if possible, include body language and physical gestures during your presentation.

The quantity of researching needed will be defined by how much detail you want to dig into while addressing the subject. However, you should identify major events and milestones associated to what you’re celebrating and compile quotes, statistics, and anecdotes that can be used in providing a greater understanding and adding context.

Yes, depending on where you acquire such data, it is important to get official authorization before exploiting such, because they may belong to a licensed label or possessed by someone else; ignoring that could lead in legal consequences, especially in commercial situations where a profit motive is involved!

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Examples

Commemorative Speech

definition of a commemorative speech

What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of a commemorative speech? Four words: graduation and recognition day. Well, you are not wrong about that. Merriam-Webster defines commemorate as either to celebrate (an event, a person, or a situation) by doing or building something or to recall and show respect for (someone or something). But have you ever wondered why this type of speech is normally given on those days? Not just because that particular day marks the students’ achievement or moving forward in their academic studies, but commemorative speeches act as a way to inspire the students in keeping up the good work they by inputting values. You may also see thank-you speech .

  • Speech Templates
  • Speech Examples

What is a Commemorative Speech?

According to an article in the University of Pittsburgh database, commemorative speeches are sometimes known as “ceremonial” or “epideictic” speeches. They are often used to pay tribute or praise a person, an institution, an event, idea, or place with their emphasis on values. It can be said that all societies hold certain values central to human existence: beauty, loyalty, wisdom, kindness, tradition, success, innocence, experience, courage, perseverance, kindness, for instance. Commemorative speeches celebrate these values. Some types of commemorative speeches include the eulogy, the speech of nomination, the speech of goodwill, the wedding toast, and the award acceptance speech. You may also see presentation speech .

Commemorative speeches are not simply informative, they act as a way for people to remember why they celebrate that in the first place. For example, a speaker would not just give a biography of who George Washington was, but rather would celebrate who he was, why he was worthy of praise, and encourage the audience to celebrate those values. You may also see orientation speech .

definition of a commemorative speech

Commemorative Speaking and the Future

Often, inspiring commemorative speeches goes beyond celebrating past or present accomplishments to give the audience hope for the future. Take the case of famous personalities like Nelson Mandela or Dr. Martin Luther King. These two men may come from different parts of the world, but they stood up for something that inspired the people to stand up for what is right and combat the injustices that they face despite all odds (Mandela against racism in Africa and Dr. Martin Luther King for equal rights for all African-Americans); some people would refer to these personalities in their speeches. Try to consider how the speaker can link past, present, and future in a commemorative speech. You may also see introduction speech

Commemorative Speech Example

Commemorative Speech Example

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Sample Commemorative Speech

Sample Commemorative Speech

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Commemorative Speech in PDF

Commemorative Speech in PDF

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Language becomes an essential part of effective commemorative speeches especially when using stories, illustrations, and figurative language to help the audience to relate your experience.Note that it is difficult to pay tribute to trivial topics. Therefore, a commemorative speech on, say, “tailgating parties” would not be appropriate. You may also see farewell speech

This speech is about what is most important to society –honor, trust, gentleness, etc.

definition of a commemorative speech

Brainstorming Topic Ideas

Before writing a commemorative speech, brainstorm some ideas for information that you could include in your speech according to  YourDictionary , an affiliate of LoveToKnow Media .

  • What memories, ideas, or information about this person would you want to share with a greater audience?
  • How can you respectfully share the significance of this person with others?
  • What stories would you want to hear when listening to this commemorative speech?

The end goal of your commemorative speech should not only be to make the audience remember your words of wisdom, but to fully express yourself in order to motivate others to feel strongly as well. Oftentimes, these speeches are filled with emotion, and other times, they are filled with inspiration, hope, and information.You may also see motivational speech

Commemorative Speechwriting

As you write your speech, make sure you have friends or colleagues who are willing to listen to your draft before finalizing your speech. The spoken word – especially when words are caught between tears of sadness – can be difficult to understand, so something on paper that makes sense might not be easy to understand aloud. You are going to need to rely on others for advice about changing phrasing, word order, and even speech patterns so that what you write becomes comprehensible. Keep this in mind as you formulate your speech on paper. You may also see declamation speech

Think about the person, place, or other thing that is being praised through your speech.

  • Can you balance tradition and formality with personal touches within your speech?
  • Make sure that your words are respectful: Lots of people will hear this speech, and some might judge you based upon the stories you share and the speech elements you include.
  • Write from the heart. It is obvious when you are speaking about something you care very little about.

If you are not inspired, talk to others who have been motivated and inspired by the thing you are commemorating, and see if you can draw ideas and inspiration from their passion.

definition of a commemorative speech

Tips and Tricks for Writing Your Best Speech

Keep in mind that depending on the type of speech you will be delivering and to whom you will be speaking to, it is important that you adjust the content of the message and perhaps some of the terminologies present in your speech, so that the audience can understand your speech better. You may also see leadership speech .

  • Clarity and conciseness are key in delivering an awesome speech. Try to take the time to explain things instead of using jargon that might leave the audience confused.
  • Avoid talking down to an audience of professionals. Make it a point that your tone is reserved and respectful instead of boastful of your own knowledge.

Remember that this speech is not about you, nor is it in reality about the person being commemorated. The key is to speak for the audience. You are really there to help people deal with their feelings, let them express themselves, and to represent the collective voice. You may also see welcome speech .

definition of a commemorative speech

Do not use this speech as a chance for self-promotion or to share your hubris. If you are worried about how people will perceive you, remember that if you can give a selfless speech, this will speak more than threading personal pats-on-the-back throughout your speech.When writing a commemorative speech, keep it simple, respectful, and honorable. It is common courtesy, after all. You may also see informative speech

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definition of a commemorative speech

Commemorative Speech Topics Spark Remembrance

Commemortive speech topics - remembering Queen Elizabeth

Giving a commemorative speech can be a powerful way to honor and celebrate the people, events, and occasions that are important to us personally or as part of a company, organization, or nation. They might focus on the life of a person, a significant event. or a special occasion.

A commemorative or ceremonial speech celebrates the milestones of a person, group, or institution and honors the significance of a particular event. While commemorative speech topics can be rather broad, the purpose remains the same: to pay tribute to the subject while inspiring and evoking positive emotions in the audience. 

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Why Should You Give A Commemorative Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to convince the audience, while an informative speech aspires to shed light on a particular topic. On the other hand, a commemorative speech is more of a celebration of the subject and the human values they exemplify in hopes of uplifting the audience. 

People typically deliver this type of speech during a special occasion (e.g., graduation ceremony, anniversary, funeral, dedication). A graduation speech, an award acceptance speech, a tribute speech, and a eulogy are all forms of a commemorative speech.

Commemorative speech topics - 9/11

How Do You Write A Good Commemorative Speech?

In speech writing, choosing a proper topic among the plethora of commemorative speech ideas is one of the first things you need to do to make a good commemorative speech. 

When selecting, you must consider yourself and your audience. Your topic should genuinely interest you, and you must have adequate knowledge about it.  It must also be relevant to the people you’re talking to. Even if you’re talking about the same topic, for instance, World War II, your approach and theme will vary depending on your audience members (e.g., if they are war comrades or high school or college students).

Once you’ve identified your topic, you must gather research materials, organize your thoughts, and create an outline complete with an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Take note that a well-crafted ceremonial speech must have relevant facts and meaningful anecdotes that capture the essence of your subject. You can also add a personal touch to provide a deeper insight into the subject matter. 

What Should The Tone Of A Commemorative Speech Be?

Commemorative speeches honor someone or something during a special occasion. Though you can deliver this speech in many different situations, t he tone should generally be elegant, uplifting, and respectful. Many ceremonial speeches also use figurative language, but you must remember not to use exaggerated language to preserve your piece’s impact and authenticity. 

Depending on the occasion and your relationship with the subject, you can also incorporate humor to make your speech more memorable. But, you must use it with the utmost sensitivity. Always remember that your goal is to usher in some lighthearted moments. When discussing funny commemorative speech topics in a more easy-going setup (for example, family reunions), you’ll have more liberty to use a comical tone. 

Whether you’re going for a full-on formal approach or want to inject some humor now and then, one thing must remain: Your speech should be heartfelt to make it more remarkable, inspiring, and effective.

What Are Some Commemorative Speech Topics?

Looking for the best commemorative speech topics? When you brainstorm with peers or research topics inspired by personal experiences of current events, you’ll find many options for a commemorative speech. Even persuasive or informative speech topics can be discussed in a ceremonial speech, given that they will be talked about in a way that fits the characteristics of such a speech. 

Here’s a list of possible topics for your commemorative speech to give you some ideas.

  • Tribute to a family member or a partner
  • Tribute to personal achievements 
  • Tribute to a colleague or mentor
  • Tribute to human courage (e.g., police officers, soldiers)
  • Tribute to hard work (e.g., family breadwinners, laborers)
  • Tribute to teamwork (e.g., sports teams)
  • Tribute to innovation (e.g., inventors, social media founders)
  • Tribute to important movements (e.g., civil rights movement, LGBT rights movement)
  • Tribute to important people (e.g., Martin Luther King, Leonardo Da Vinci, Charlie Chaplin, or even Mr. Bean)
  • A commemoration of important events (e.g., abolishment of the slave trade)
  • A commemoration of life-changing disasters or calamities (e.g., earthquakes)
  • The value of freedom
  • The value of hope
  • The value of resilience
  • The value of family
  • The value of humor
  • Examples of loyalty
  • Examples of artistic or scientific ingenuity
  • Examples of honesty
  • Examples of patriotism

What Is The Difference Between A Commemorative Speech And A Eulogy?

As stated, a eulogy is a specific type of commemorative or special occasion speech. Usually, a family member or a close friend delivers it during a funeral or memorial service. 

Generally speaking, the goal of a commemorative speech is to honor a person or an event. Eulogies, in particular, are meant to remember a deceased individual. It’s a way to show respect and reflect on the person’s life, character, achievements, and impact. The audience members of a eulogy comprise family members, friends, loved ones, peers, and acquaintances of the deceased. 

During this type of speech, the tone is more solemn and emotional, as it’s also a way for the speaker to console and comfort the bereaved. In other instances, speakers also incorporate humor while maintaining a respectful tone. Again, as mentioned, this will depend on your relationship with the subject and the overall mood of the event. You can sensitively inject a lighthearted mood by sharing stories and experiences you’ve had about the deceased.

Eulogy - Reverend Al Sharpton delivers eulogy at the funeral for 1-year-old boy killed by bullet at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

What Is A Commemorative Speech About An Event?

You can use a commemorative speech in remembrance of an important event. This type of speech celebrates the remarkable impact of the said occasion. It also commemorates the people who played vital roles in the event. 

However, commemorative speeches about significant events don’t just aim to recount past happenings. These are avenues where you, as the speaker, can implore the audience members to reflect and think about what they can do to preserve positive human values and embody the valuable learnings the event had put to the fore. 

Some topics that you can talk about include:

  • The moon landing and Neil Armstong as the first man who set foot on the moon
  • Historic expeditions and discoveries of countries by Ferdinand Magellan or Christopher Columbus
  • The Pearl Harbor bombing and the brave individuals who lost their lives
  • The 9/11 terrorist attacks and their victims and heroes
  • Important women’s rights movement events, such as the graduation of Elizabeth Blackwell, who became the first female doctor in the US
  • The Paris Agreement and how world leaders are uniting to combat climate change
  • The coronavirus pandemic and the selfless act of healthcare heroes who stepped up to fight it

What Is An Example Of A Commemorative Speech?

There’s a multitude of commemorative speech topics that you can talk about. One example you can study is the eulogy by US President Barack Obama during the memorial service of Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa and an iconic human rights advocate.

Below is a part of the speech’s introduction: 

“To the people of South Africa — people of every race and walk of life — the world thanks you for sharing Nelson Mandela with us.  His struggle was your struggle.  His triumph was your triumph.  Your dignity and your hope found expression in his life.  And your freedom, your democracy is his cherished legacy.”

In the body, he pondered the life and work of Mandela and what people can learn from it. Here’s a snippet:

“Mandela understood the ties that bind the human spirit.  There is a word in South Africa — Ubuntu, a word that captures Mandela’s greatest gift:  his recognition that we are all bound together in ways that are invisible to the eye; that there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us.”

In his conclusion, he delivered a strong, respectful statement: “After this great liberator is laid to rest, and when we have returned to our cities and villages and rejoined our daily routines, let us search for his strength.  Let us search for his largeness of spirit somewhere inside of ourselves.  And when the night grows dark, when injustice weighs heavy on our hearts, when our best-laid plans seem beyond our reach, let us think of Madiba and the words that brought him comfort within the four walls of his cell: ‘It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.’” 

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240 Engaging Commemorative Speech Topics and Ideas

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If you wish to improve your public speaking skills, then you should practice giving a commemorative speech. Do you wonder what commemorative speech means? If yes, then this blog post will be helpful to you. Here, we have explained everything about commemorative speech topic selection and preparation. In addition to that, we have also suggested 200+ outstanding commemorative speech topics and ideas on different occasions. Continue reading this blog to update your knowledge of commemorative speech.

Basically, there are different types of speeches available and one among them is the commemorative speech. In case, you are intended to give a commemorative speech, first get to know its definition and its importance.

Synchronic Commemorative Speech Topics

Definition of Commemorative Speech

A commemorative speech is a specific type of speech that is typically prepared to honor someone by remembering them. Such a speech may be given at a formal or special occasion to celebrate a milestone, a concept, or a tribute to a person, a group of people, or a business. A commemorative speech is also known as a ceremonial speech.

The speech presented during the graduation ceremonies of colleges is an example of a commemorative speech. One can also give this type of speech to express thanks to their family, friends, and professors. Usually, the topic for a commemorative speech will be selected depending on the situation or an event.

How to Give a Commemorative Speech?

  A good commemorative speech intends to inspire the public. Equally, it delivers promises, and inspiration in your motivational comments. Thus, you need to follow a rational shape to accomplish that job. Learn that as a college student, you might commemorate your associates, teachers, or parents. A good commemorative topic will overwhelm the heart of audiences. It will recollect every event in your life.

For an interesting commemorative speech, we need to concentrate on the topic. Hence, the audience should recollect their memories of love, effort, or loyalty during the speech.

How to Find the Best Commemorative Speech Topic?

When you are asked to select a commemorative speech for your communication assignment or speech competition, first make sure to determine the subject you are passionate about. Next, consider the following.

  • Learn commemorative speech styles.
  • Study your audience.
  • Learn the purpose of the event.
  • Honor or respect: The commemorative speech has also offered recognition to people, institutions, etc
  •  You should indicate subjects that honor the audience and implant that in your commemorative speeches.

As soon as you realize these facts, it will keep you convenient to explore your thoughts.

How to determine the best commemorative topics

List of Commemorative Speech Topics and Ideas

The following are some excellent ideas that you can consider for delivering a commemorative speech.

Speech Topics to Honor Special Persons in Your Life

  • Honoring Your Parents With a Tribute
  • Honoring Your Siblings With a Tribute.
  • Honoring Your colleague With a Tribute.
  • Honoring Your Teacher With a Tribute.
  • Honoring Your Spouse With a Tribute.
  • Honoring Your Leaders and Friends.
  • Showing Benevolence to Teachers
  • Showing Benevolence to Friends
  • Showing Benevolence to Colleagues
  • Showing Benevolence to Spouse
  • Showing Benevolence to Siblings
  • Honoring your mother on International Mother’s Day with an open letter

Simple Commemorative Speech Topics

  • A tribute to the United Nations: Fifty Years of Keeping the Peace.
  • A tribute to Gorbachev hails for Cold War and the nuclear arms race ends.
  • Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream is gone far beyond climax.
  • A tribute by remembering What is the Paris Agreement summary.
  • Tribute to Toni Morrison.
  • Remembering the psychology of William Faulkner and his contribution through his books.
  • Tribute to Elizabeth Blackwell and How she became the first female doctor.
  • Recognize the role of Roosevelt, Churchill, And The devotion Of in the U.S.
  • Neil Armstrong Commemorate: Tributes to 1st Man to Walk on Moon.
  • Incidental service of hope that has enlightened spirits globally.
  • Speak out about “Kindness is the greatest gift for the needy who expects them most to survive.”
  • Top Genius Social Media Campaigns that change the thoughts.
  • Express your greetings to ” How online food delivery boy work in Lockdown & Pandemic situations.”
  • Express your greetings to ” Front-line workers in the Medical and Administrative service sectors.”
  • Work Together to Build Partnerships and Pursue Peace & Harmony.

Excellent Commemorative Speech Topics

  • Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development of Nations.
  • Famous Paintings of All Time in Art History that surprised the world.
  • Celebrating religious values that articulate life and serve the lives of many.
  • Tribute to women who embellished harmony in world politics.
  • A tribute to the National Heros
  • Express gratitude to teachers
  • Tribute to Frida Kahlo for her brilliantly colored and uncompromising self-portraits
  • Remembering the legacy and contributions of Nelson Mandela
  • Tribute to the Front-line Workers who lost their life while fighting the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Working together with philanthropists to make the world a better place to live
  • Raise voices for equality and human rights for the people belonging to backward classes
  • Commemorating the greatest technological innovations
  • Commemorating the innovations of life-saving drugs
  • Tribute to the freedom fighters
  • A tribute to Barack Obama: One of the most admired men in the world

Outstanding Commemorative Speech Ideas

  • Journey of Joy and Remembrance of college times.
  • Honoring the best professors on campus.
  • A Tribute to Teachers Who enlightens with educations.
  • New student convocation welcome speech to classes.
  • The World Is What It Is Today Because of These Technological Innovations.- Tribute to all scientists.
  • “Change Your Perspective, Change Your Life” – A commendation statement on education systems.
  • My Success Stories | My Success at the University. – Express your greeting.
  • Tribute to all Faces of some of the lives lost this year in the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Tribute to the biggest scientific discoveries and inventions ever!
  • Honoring those who established Resistance and Abolition of the slavery trade.
  • Tribute to a nurturing mentor.
  • Tribute to the Scientists who discover the Roadmap of Biomedical Engineers.
  • Mourning speech to the Victims of Slavery and suffered by Slave Trade customs.
  • Show the colossal improvements made for actions and Tackling Climate Change.
  • Remembering Pearl Harbor attack 79 years later”- Share condolences for those martyrs.
  • Show condolences to those martyrs who sacrificed their lives in recent Afgan suicide bombing attacks.
  • Greet those persons who taught us the Importance of Determination in Life.
  • Mourning speech to the victims of the terrorist attacks on the twin towers of the World Trade Center
  • Show condolences to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the Lashkar e-Taiba attack on The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai
  • A tribute to Sir Alexander Fleming for his contribution to medicine, immunology, bacteriology, and chemotherapy
  • Mourning speech to the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • A tribute to Mother Teresa for her sacrifices and charitable contributions

Read more topics: Top 100 Thought-provoking Motivational Speech Topics

Impressive Commemorative Speech Topics

  • What patriotism means to me – Independence Day Special Commemorative Speech.
  • The Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Commemorating a speech of difficult moments and sacrifices made by our soldiers.
  • Loyal to Country or Conscience- A Commemorative Speech in Independence Day celebration moments.
  • Conceptualizing American Attitudes toward Immigrants in Association with World Immigration Day.
  • A tribute to the “Painting in the Dutch Golden Age.”
  • Monuments to the American Revolution- Express feelings to war veterans and soldiers.
  • Reformer Heroines and the Consecration of the Patriarchal State. – Honor to those patriots.
  • The Power of Small Wins learning for a big victory. – Courage the countryman with your voice of speech.
  • Share the History of Bravery in African American joint Military valor.
  • A tribute to frontline corona warriors––Doctors & health workers who sacrifice their life.

Best Commemorative Speech Ideas

  • Paying tribute to the scientists who successfully invent the first coronavirus vaccine.
  • Honors to all OLIMPIC 2020 medal winners for their glorious success in sports.
  • ‘So many things to do in life’: Describe the US’s coronavirus victims who survive it.
  • Celebrate Women’s Suffrage. – Commemorative Speech for prosperity.
  • “Progress Towards Gender Equality Under Threat”- Express greetings to all activists who establish equality.
  • A tribute to Nobel Peace Prize winners: The 2020 Nobel Laureates Michael Houghton (Medicine)
  • A commendation to Nobel Peace Prize winners for contributing to the ‘World Food Program.’
  • Sustainable Earth: Honor the activity of a Saviour from Disasters protection.
  • Honor the activists who work against the myth “catastrophes can change the course of humanity”.
  • Honors the world leaders’ call for the promotion of peace by ensuring humans in war-torn countries.
  • Celebrate Motherhood
  • Tribute to all the brave hearts who have sacrificed their life to protect their country
  • Honor social workers and individuals engaged in charitable works
  • A commendation to all the Innovators Fighting Poverty and World Hunger

Read more topic: Cool Ideas on Cultural Research Topics For your Assignment

Commemorative Speech Topics on Social Rights

  • Recognize & Tribute to Achieving Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment.
  • Honoring to the Persistence: Honor that Fired-Fight for Women’s Survival.
  • Tribute to soldiers who took valorous actions during Terror Attacks.
  • Remembering Heroes Who sacrifice Their life to Save the Nations.
  • Honor the legendary sole who taught us about Character Strengths and Mindfulness in life.
  • 150 years of LGBT+ history: Paying gratitude to the past, present, and future.
  • LGBT Rights | Paying gratitude to Congresswoman: Carolyn Maloney.
  • Honoring The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
  • Tribute to the philanthropists working for social health and well-being
  • Showing gratitude to the American Civil Liberties Union for its work to ensure LGBTQ Rights

Commemorative Speech Ideas on Social and Educational Service

  • The Figure of Courage – George W. Bush Presidential Center Service.
  • Speech of gratitude to veterans from the Yale fellowship.
  • Prayers For those who serve and protect the society and culture of states.
  • Honoring the world’s police for redeeming law & order.
  • Honoring the Religious Ceremonial occasion Around the World.
  • In World Parents’ Day: A Tribute To Single Parents.
  • My gratitude to single mothers on Mother’s Day Celebrations Day.
  • Honoring Parental love is the only love that is truly selfless.
  • Honoring in Teacher’s Day celebrations to all teachers “Thank You Put across for Teachers to Show Prospects “.
  • Praise for a brilliant mentor and teacher at your university.
  • Tribute to the woman’s rights movement
  • Honoring human courage
  • Communal Peace acts as the wheels to bring progress for society and the world as a whole – A commemorative speech for social health and well-being
  • Education is fundamental for a nation’s growth and development – A commemorative speech for education

Unique Commemorative Speech Topics

  • Leadership Styles in Education who established model evolution- express greetings.
  • Celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development- Honoring all scientists.
  • Recognize The role of science and technology in future design. – Share greetings to all scientists.
  • Eulogy for Your Mother: Guidance and Care. – A Tribute to Mom.
  • Tributes to the teachers who inspired us, and even changed our lives.
  • Our television favorite characters and the values they portray.
  • Moral Lessons in Television Programs that shaped our lives.
  • Tribute to Aristotle and Politics – For Constitutional Rights Foundation.
  • Tribute to the Athletics for Character and Moral Development.
  • Honor the sportspersons who unveiled the Core Values of Team spirit.

Awesome Commemorative Speech Topics

  • The Role of Jonathan Edwards and the Great Awakening. – express your greeting to his service.
  • Great Awakening and Enlightenment function of a renowned personality who centralized the society.
  • A Tribute to My Friend, Colleague, and Heros who consider a significant change in society.
  • A Tribute to Jose Delgado, Legendary Pioneer of Mind Control.
  • Remembering the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks And remembering those martyrs.
  • A Tribute to Daniel Kahneman changing the track we think.
  • Eulogy Fact Sheet of The American Families Plan.
  • Condolences and Tributes for President Jeffrey H. Barker.
  • Cheering the essence of the Bible “What Does the Bible Say About Leading in Life?”.”
  • Patriotism on democracy day
  • A Tribute to Ernest Hemingway – One of the most admirable authors in the world
  • A tribute to Martin Luther King for his achievement
  • Paying respect to the Constitution of the United States
  • A Tribute to Leonardo da Vinci
  • Celebrating the World Blood Donor Day
  • Spreading awareness for protecting wildlife by celebrating the World Wildlife Day

Captivating Commemorative Speech Topics

  • Why Apollo 13 became NASA’s most successful failure. Cheerfully Commemorate those scientists for better success in the future.
  • The Ideological and Spiritual Transformation of life after pursuing college studies.
  • Commemorate the women who changed the world in ways you might not realize.
  • Celebrations Break Out After Same-Sex Marriage Legalized. Express your greetings to the policymakers.
  • Speak about National Speech & Debate Association in college curriculums.
  • Express The Evolution of Social Media and its involvement in daily life (Facebook).
  • Express greeting about The Changing Landscape of American Life Expectancy.
  • Verbalize acknowledgment about Lifespan and Healthspan: Past, Present, and Promise.
  • Express words regarding How Teachers and Sports Coaches Can Help to Ensure moral character.
  • Honors the Important of Teamwork Skills You Learned in School. – express your greeting to your institutions.

Trending Commemorative Speech Topics

  • Key Components of Civilization- Honors the Maya Heritage & Cultural Survivals.
  • Express your feelings about the Social and Academic Benefits of Team Sports.
  • Honors the initiatives taken by authorities regarding the Global Polio Eradication Commencement.
  • Commemorate your feelings with some words for the Autobiographical Fiction of Charles Bukowski’s novels, poems, and stories.
  • The perceptibility that overcomes “Conquering the Challenge of Isolation in Space”.
  • Global initiatives against “Eradication of Extreme Poverty and Hunger”.
  • The future of food and agriculture: “Express perceptibility that increases the positive Trends”
  • Honor those initiators who immensely work for Demographics and Economic Growth.
  • Share greetings to the initiators who change the History of HIV and AIDS in the United States.
  • Celebrating and honoring NASA for its achievements since 1958
  • Tribute to a woman’s rights movement
  • Acknowledging all the scientists in the medical field for their contribution to the global healthcare system
  • The Paris Agreement – Evidence showing all country’s concern and collaboration in to fight against the threat of global warming

Read more: Impressive Funny Speech Topics and IdeasTo Consider

Amusing Commemorative Speech Ideas

  • Patriotism: Speeches for Special Occasions that motivate others.
  • Kindness can change the world: Your winning speech can be a topic for the ceremonial speech.
  • Your Selflessness Can Lead to Happiness. – Share speeches that can deliver smiles.
  • Honors the Johannes Gutenberg and the Printing Press: Contribution on Social & Cultural Developments.
  • Student success is about more than hard work: You can commemorate the illustrations and the worth of intense learning.
  • Share a greeting to NASA for his tremendous contribution to the International Space research community.
  • Sacrifice for Motherland – A speech to show gratitude to all the soldiers who fought for their country
  • Paying tribute to mankind
  • A speech to show condolences to all who lost their near and dear ones in terrorist attacks.

Exemplary Commemorative Speech Ideas

  • A commendation to Mr. Bean and his gift to contribute to the world a cheerful place.
  • Share your greetings on Top Most Nostalgic TV Cartoons in your Childhood.
  • Lights, Chaplin, Action!: Share Tribute To Charlie Chaplin for his tremendous contribution.
  • Recollect the memories of 1st day I made chocolate cakes.
  • Recollect the Secrets to Lasting Relationships From High School Sweethearts.
  • My School Picnic excites me eternally.
  • Recollect the memories of 1st greeting “Will you marry me card”- Wedding proposals to your love.
  • Paying tribute to the animator behind the “Tom & Jerry” TV series.
  • Memorialize the publication of “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” movie director.
  • Celebrating the gift of Mark Ruffalo and Russo brothers “Avengers: Endgame”.
  • Remembering the Culinary School award-winning moments.
  • Paying tribute to Charlie Chaplin for his notable contribution to the world of comedy.
  •  Celebrating the fun-filled and creative minds behind the Cartoon Network
  •  Memories from childhood
  •  Recalling the first day at school
  • Memorizing the childhood sweetheart after finding him on the social media platforms

Popular Commemorative Speech Topics

  •   Student leader who displays exceptional leadership skills.
  •   Tribute to the mother for rearing you in the best possible manner.
  •   Recalling the kindergarten class teacher who taught discipline.
  •   TV shows that influenced our values and morals.
  •   Wrestling winners who represent determination.
  •   Role of a famous priest in uniting society.
  •   A tribute to my favorite neighbor during my college days.
  •   When you helped your family with the first salary.
  •   Discussing with your coworkers the most memorable international trip
  • Charlie Chaplin’s contribution to the field of comedy.
  • How have inventions made by humans changed the world?
  • Becoming a teacher to guide the kids in the right direction.
  • A celebration of loyalty using instances from actual individuals.
  •   The day of your sports team’s inaugural triumph.
  • Your close relative’s wedding.
  • A celebration of the bases of contemporary civilization.
  • The moment you first saw your prospective spouse.
  • Homage to moral fortitude using a historical figure or a living person you know as an example.
  • A person’s bravery saved lives.
  • Advancing personally and improving oneself.

Latest Commemorative Speech Ideas

  • Kindness is a subject that can be utilized to choose a topic for a memorial speech.
  • Selflessness is a value that many people embody.
  • At Pearl Harbor: This remembrance speech subject is quite typical.
  • Press for printing The invention of the printing press contributed to the global expansion of learning, ideas, and education.
  • arduous work You can celebrate the virtues of a hard work ethic and its examples.
  • Loyalty: You might choose to remember the person who has been a part of your own or other people’s life.
  • Your view on life was altered by academic accomplishment
  • We can learn values and virtues from George Washington’s life.
  • Eulogy for a professor who handled a course at your university
  • Keeping in mind to support crusaders working to end the slave trade
  • A case study of the World Cup champions illustrates the importance of teamwork.
  • demonstrating the enormous advancements made by the World Health Organization
  • recalling individual accomplishments that have influenced your life to this day

Engaging Commemorative Speech Prompts

  • The caliber of the education you got and the chances your school provided
  • Academic achievement in your organization and the benefits it confers
  • The success of your squad in a sporting competition or league is made possible by assistance from your institution
  • Honoring the medical professionals who valiantly fought the coronavirus epidemic
  • Medical engineers’ achievements in the realm of medicine
  • A case study of the world cup champions illustrates the importance of collaboration.
  • How you grew close to your classmates or coworkers and what you learned
  • Honoring some of history’s greatest explorers: The Magellan case
  • Columbus’ contribution to the creation of the United States
  • Tribute to human courage during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Depict an eminent person fighting for human rights in South Africa
  • Speak about your sister’s transformation both intellectually and spiritually after completing post-graduation in the field of religious studies
  • Tell the people where they can find the work of Vincent Van Gogh and the inner meaning of the artworks of Vincent Van Gogh
  • Deliver a speech to demonstrate how to establish a fashion-designing business
  • Deliver a speech in honor of the social workers and front-line workers who valiantly fought the COVID-19 epidemic
  • Deliver a speech to give a tribute to the courage and bravery of Junko Tabei, the first woman on the Everest summit
  • Tribute to Victoria E. Murden and Shirley Metz, the women who reached the South Pole by land
  • Deliver a speech to demonstrate how the ancient artistic portraits and crafts amazed the world
  • Deliver a speech in honor of the contribution of Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill

Interesting Commemorative Speech Topics

  • A tribute to the greatest travelers of the past who changed the human ideas of the Earth.
  • Present a tribute to the invention of antibiotics that saved millions of lives.
  • Celebrating modern ethical principles.
  • A tribute to loyalty with examples of real people.
  • Share a tribute to critical thinking.
  • Recalling the victims of a mass shooting.
  • Inspiring events that were broadcast on television.
  • In honor of a character who persevered.
  • Paying homage to Leonardo Da Vinci’s art.
  • Honoring Bruce Lee and His Contribution to Cinema

Wrapping Up

Out of the different ideas recommended in this blog, pick any topic according to your needs and present an impressive commemorative speech. In case, you need help with commemorative speech topic selection and content preparation, feel free to contact us. On our platform, we have numerous talented speechwriters to offer speech assignment help for all types of speeches including commemorative speeches. Especially, based on the speech guidelines you share with us, our professionals will prepare and deliver winning speech content in advance of the deadline.

Without any hesitation, just book your order and avail our high-quality speech assignment help in Canada at an affordable price.

definition of a commemorative speech

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Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of eulogy.

A eulogy is a commemorative speech or piece of writing in praise of someone who has recently died, or someone who is leaving, such as a retiree. Eulogies are a common part of funeral services around the world, and can also be found in retirement celebrations or farewell parties.

The word eulogy comes from the Classical Greek word εὐλογία ( eulogia ), which means “praise.”

Difference Between Eulogy, Elegy, and Obituary

The definition of eulogy is very similar to that of an elegy , in that both are written in remembrance of a lost loved one or friend. However, elegies are different in that they are written in the form of a poem, and usually are focused more on mourning and lamentation. A eulogy may very well be mournful as well, but can often include more memories and anecdotes to portray the person who is gone. Eulogies also focus more on praise than sadness. Also, there is the key difference that some eulogy examples are given for people who are still alive but are leaving a certain job or place.

Eulogies and obituaries are also quite similar in that they detail the trajectory of a person’s life or career. However, an obituary is a published biography and always are written for recently deceased people, while eulogies are generally presented as a speech and, as stated above, are not necessarily about deceased people.

Common Examples of Eulogy

There are many famous examples of eulogies that have been presented by and for famous people. Here are some excerpts from famous eulogy examples:

A glory has departed and the sun that warmed and brightened our lives has set, and we shiver in the cold and dark. Yet he would not have us feel this way. After all, that glory that we saw for all these years, that man with divine fire, changed us also–and such as we are, we have been molded by him during these years; and out of that divine fire many of us also took a small spark which strengthened and made us work to some extent on the lines that he fashioned. And so if we praise him, our words seem rather small, and if we praise him, to some extent we also praise ourselves. Great men and eminent men have monuments in bronze and marble set up for them, but this man of divine fire managed in his lifetime to become enshrined in millions and millions of hearts so that all of us became somewhat of the stuff that he was made of, though to an infinitely lesser degree. He spread out in this way all over India, not just in palaces, or in select places or in assemblies, but in every hamlet and hut of the lowly and those who suffer. He lives in the hearts of millions and he will live for immemorial ages.

—Jawaharlal Nehru’s eulogy for Mahatma Gandhi (1948)

There’s a coincidence today. On this day 390 years ago, the great explorer Sir Francis Drake died aboard ship off the coast of Panama. In his lifetime the great frontiers were the oceans, and an historian later said, “He lived by the sea, died on it, and was buried in it.” Well, today we can say of the Challenger crew: Their dedication was, like Drake’s, complete. The crew of the space shuttle Challenger honored us by the manner in which they lived their lives. We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and “slipped the surly bonds of earth” to “touch the face of God.”

—President Reagan’s eulogy for the Challenger Space shuttle crew (1986)

Significance of Eulogy in Literature

Eulogizing someone who is gone is often an important part of the grieving process. Authors may choose to include an example of eulogy if a character has died in the work of literature. Like those who give eulogies in the real world, characters who eulogize other characters may choose either to present a complete biography of a person’s life, to retell memories, or to highlight important parts of the person’s life in connection with the speaker’s experience.

Examples of Eulogy in Literature

ANTONY: Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him. The evil that men do lives after them; The good is oft interred with their bones; So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus Hath told you Caesar was ambitious: If it were so, it was a grievous fault, And grievously hath Caesar answer’d it. Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest– For Brutus is an honourable man; So are they all, all honourable men– Come I to speak in Caesar’s funeral. He was my friend, faithful and just to me: But Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an honourable man. He hath brought many captives home to Rome Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill: Did this in Caesar seem ambitious? When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept: Ambition should be made of sterner stuff: Yet Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an honourable man. You all did see that on the Lupercal I thrice presented him a kingly crown, Which he did thrice refuse: was this ambition? Yet Brutus says he was ambitious; And, sure, he is an honourable man. I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke, But here I am to speak what I do know. You all did love him once, not without cause: What cause withholds you then, to mourn for him? O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts, And men have lost their reason. Bear with me; My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar, And I must pause till it come back to me.

( Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare)

Mark Antony’s monologue is perhaps the most famous example of a eulogy in all of literature. And yet, it does not, at first, seem like a typical eulogy. Antony’s words are full of sarcasm and verbal irony , as he seems to be praising Caesar’s killer Brutus. Instead, Antony is saying that Brutus is to be blamed entirely and Caesar did, in fact have wonderful qualities such as “faithful and just to me” and “When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept.”

“‘And of all this,’ she went on mournfully, ‘of all his promise, and of all his greatness, of his generous mind, of his noble heart, nothing remains—nothing but a memory. You and I—’ “‘We shall always remember him,’ I said hastily. “‘No!’ she cried. ‘It is impossible that all this should be lost—that such a life should be sacrificed to leave nothing—but sorrow. You know what vast plans he had. I knew of them, too—I could not perhaps understand—but others knew of them. Something must remain. His words, at least, have not died.’ “‘His words will remain,’ I said.”

( Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad)

In the above excerpt, the character Kurtz has been dead for a year and Marlow struggles to provide a proper eulogy for him when meeting with Kurtz’s fiancé (The Intended, as she’s called in the novel). Having known the true darkness of Kurtz’s experience in the Congo, Marlow lets The Intended eulogize him herself.

A little tufty-haired man in plain black robes had got to his feet and stood now in front of Dumbledore’s body. Harry could not hear what he was saying. Odd words floated back to them over the hundreds of heads. “Nobility of spirit”…“intellectual contribution”…“greatness of heart” . . . It did not mean very much. It had little to do with Dumbledore as Harry had known him. He suddenly remembered Dumbledore’s idea of a few words, “nitwit,” “oddment,” “blubber,” and “tweak,” and again had to suppress a grin….What was the matter with him?

( Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling)

One of the most beloved characters in J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series dies in the sixth installment. In an interesting example of eulogy, Harry Potter does not care to listen to anyone else’s words about his mentor Albus Dumbledore. Indeed, in this case, the eulogy falls flat to Harry because no words— “Nobility of spirit”…“intellectual contribution”…“greatness of heart”—could truly represent what kind of person Dumbledore was.

Test Your Knowledge of Eulogy

1. Which of the following statements is the best eulogy definition? A. A published biography of a recently deceased person. B. A speech made in praise of someone gone or about to leave. C. A mournful poem in remembrance of a dead loved one.

2. Which of the following statements is true? A. Eulogies are delivered only for recently deceased people. B. Eulogies only occur in writing. C. Eulogies usually focus on praise of an individual.

3. Which of the following quotes is an example of eulogy? A. Charles Spencer, speaking about Princess Diana: “All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity, a standard-bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a truly British girl who transcended nationality, someone with a natural nobility who was classless, who proved in the last year that she needed no royal title to continue to generate her particular brand of magic.” B. William Faulkner, speaking about Ernest Hemingway: “He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary.” C. James Reston, speaking about Richard Nixon: “He inherited some good instincts from his Quaker forebears but by diligent hard work, he overcame them.”

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commemorative

Definition of commemorative

  • commemorating
  • memorializing

Examples of commemorative in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'commemorative.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1612, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near commemorative

commemoration

commemoratory

Cite this Entry

“Commemorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/commemorative. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of commemorative, more from merriam-webster on commemorative.

Nglish: Translation of commemorative for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of commemorative for Arabic Speakers

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  1. FREE 6+ Sample Commemorative Speech in PDF

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  2. Commemorative Speech: Definition, Guide, Tips and Examples

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  3. Commemorative Speech Examples

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  4. Commemorative speech topic: ideas to inspire your audience

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  1. Commemorative Speech

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  1. Commemorative Speech Writing

    Commemorative Speech Definition . A commemorative (or ceremonial or epideictic) speech is defined as an address of honor delivered to celebrate or praise the value of a person, group, place, event, idea, or institute. This type of speech writing is not just verbal praise or appreciation. It is more of a celebration and acknowledgment.

  2. How to Write a Commemorative Speech: Examples & Tips

    A speech about a relative's last wishes or dreams; About a relative's marriage or family life; About a relative's relationship with a pet A firsthand account of your relationship with a relative; Commemorative Speech Examples. If you're still struggling to get the ball rolling, here are some specific examples of commemorative speeches.

  3. Commemorative Speech Examples: Remembering With Style

    Commemorative speech examples show how to remember an event, company, or occasion. A commemorative speech (also known as an epideictic or ceremonial speech) pays tribute to a person, a group, or an institution. It can also spotlight a momentous event that has happened in the past.

  4. Commemorative Speech Writing Guide: Outline & Topics for 2024

    A: In 2024, some suggested topics for commemorative speeches could include current events, significant anniversaries, notable individuals, or any other subject that holds relevance and impact for the year. Choose a topic that resonates with you and allows you to craft a meaningful speech.

  5. Writing a Commemorative Speech That Makes an Impact

    Are you writing a commemorative speech and looking for some tips and advice? Learn how to write something meaningful, respectful and courteous here.

  6. How to Write a Commemorative Speech to Make an Impact

    Step 1: Pick a Subject. The first step is to choose the topic about which you want to make the commemorative speech. You can pay tribute to someone's legacy, acknowledge contributions, or salute to the welfare cause of any personality. Suppose that you are going to make a speech of commemoration to honor the 30 years of teaching services of ...

  7. Commemorative Speech Writing Guide

    Commemorative speech requires a focus on the past, present, and future aspects of the topic. For instance, success, loyalty, wisdom, courage, hope, etc. It can also be an award acceptance speech, or a eulogy to honor someone after their death. Now that you have understood the commemorative speech definition, let's take a look and learn how to ...

  8. Commemorative Speech Inspires Listeners Celebrate Remember

    A commemorative speech honors or celebrates a person, event, or occasion. They might remember someone who has died or mark a birthday, anniversary, founding, or history of achievements. The speech should inspire listeners to reflect and feel pride, gratitude, or loss. In public speaking, a commemorative speech pays tribute to a person, a group ...

  9. How to Write a Commemorative Speech with Examples

    A commemorative speech, often called a tribute speech, is a type of public address delivered to honor and celebrate a person, group, event, or idea. In the context of nursing students, it serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to the extraordinary nurses who have made significant contributions to the field.

  10. Commemorative Speech: A Complete Writing Guide for Students

    Commemorative Speech Definition A commemorative speech is a special speech given at a ceremony that praises the value of a person, place, event, idea, or institute. This speech is more than just a verbal compliment, it's an expression of gratitude and acknowledgement.

  11. Commemorative Speaking

    The commemorative speech will celebrate these values. Types of commemorative speeches include the eulogy, the speech of nomination, the speech of goodwill, the wedding toast, and the award acceptance speech. Please note that the commemorative speech is not just informative. Thus, a speaker would not just give a biography of Ghandi, but rather ...

  12. Exploring Examples of Commemorative Speeches: Inspiration and Guidance

    Commemorative speeches hold the power to inspire and uplift audiences, allowing us to honor and remember individuals, events, and ideas. Crafting a commemorative speech requires skillful speech writing and public speaking techniques that can leave a lasting impact. In this section, we will explore a collection of compelling examples of commemorative speeches that can serve as inspiration and ...

  13. Commemorative Speech: Full Guide

    What is a commemorative speech? The commemorative speech definition refers to a type of speech that is delivered to celebrate a significant event, person, or achievement. Writing a speech in remembrance of someone means crafting a message that speaks to that person. These can occasionally be very emotional, and other times they contain ...

  14. Commemorative Speech

    The commemorative speech definition refers to a type of speech delivered to celebrate, commemorate or remember an important event, person, or milestone. It's about honoring someone and celebrating their life and accomplishments with friends and family. When writing a commemorative speech, itâ s important to create a message that reflects the ...

  15. Commemorative speech topic: ideas to inspire your audience

    In summary, a great commemorative/tribute speech: is in tune with the audience's values. is sincere and relevant. uses the language of oratory (figurative language) to capture the hearts of its hearers. includes story telling. invokes all the senses - sight, sound, touch, smell & taste. leaves the audience uplifted and inspired.

  16. Commemorative Speech • My Speech Class

    Commemorative speech topics tutorial including seven examples on what you could deliver as observation, memory, monument in words or even celebrate in an salut: Focus on the values of life and past, present, and future of society. For example hope, trust, kindness, courage, loyalty, wisdom, disappointment, camaraderie, dignity, success, and ...

  17. Commemorative Speech: Definition, Guide, Tips and Examples

    A commemorative speech which is also known as a ceremonial speech is given as an honor to the public. The purpose of this speech is to celebrate a particular event of a person, group, or company. Here the speaker gives the speech to express gratitude, paying tribute to the events or the person. The speech is about giving inspiration indirectly ...

  18. Commemorative Speech Writing: Step By Step Guide

    Definition of a Commemorative Speech. A commemorative speech is meant to be meaningful; it should be inspirational to listeners and as well make them feel a connection with the subject being honored. Many a times, this type of speech is given at memorial services or other events where people gather to honor someone's memory or achievements.

  19. Commemorative Speech

    Commemorative speeches celebrate these values. Some types of commemorative speeches include the eulogy, the speech of nomination, the speech of goodwill, the wedding toast, and the award acceptance speech. You may also see presentation speech. Commemorative speeches are not simply informative, they act as a way for people to remember why they ...

  20. Commemorative Speech Topics Spark Remembrance

    Here's a list of possible topics for your commemorative speech to give you some ideas. Tribute to a family member or a partner. Tribute to personal achievements. Tribute to a colleague or mentor. Tribute to human courage (e.g., police officers, soldiers) Tribute to hard work (e.g., family breadwinners, laborers)

  21. 240 Engaging Commemorative Speech Topics and Ideas

    Definition of Commemorative Speech. A commemorative speech is a specific type of speech that is typically prepared to honor someone by remembering them. Such a speech may be given at a formal or special occasion to celebrate a milestone, a concept, or a tribute to a person, a group of people, or a business. ...

  22. Eulogy Examples and Definition

    Definition of Eulogy. A eulogy is a commemorative speech or piece of writing in praise of someone who has recently died, or someone who is leaving, such as a retiree. Eulogies are a common part of funeral services around the world, and can also be found in retirement celebrations or farewell parties. The word eulogy comes from the Classical ...

  23. Commemorative Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of COMMEMORATIVE is intended as a commemoration; especially : issued in limited quantities for a limited time to honor or feature someone or something. How to use commemorative in a sentence.