Actually I have been through the counselor training for a Graham Crusade and served as a Counselor Supervisor in the Atlanta Crusade (many) years back.
We were told not to presume that those walking forward were doing so because they were desirous of trusting Christ. We were trained how to interview those coming forward to discern what their need was and to minister to that need. As a supervisor my job was to listen in on these discussions and help with more complicated issues or questions.
I also was asked to look out for cult members who would walk forward and try to influence others walking forward. I broke up several of these situations.
Those who respond to the message are followed up by local churches.
I can offer many points of criticism to the process, but I think your summary needed some further explanation.
BTW, my "favorite" evangelist was George Whitefield.
Thanks. It's good to hear that local churches followed up. That's the way it should work. I guess I singled out Billy Graham for no other reason than he is perhaps the most recognizable figure who uses that kind of evangelistic approach.
I know many evangelical Christians--whether part of a singing group or short-term missions team--who shared reports like "350 people accepted Christ," or "Half of the people in the village were saved." They may have had methods for following up, but we never really heard that side of it. People always seem to be more interested in the emotional, heart-warming aspect of evangelism.