Operation Graduate is a a program designed to honor veterans and Japanese-American citizens who were unable to finish high school due to military service or internment during World War II, or the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It is open to current California residents or residents of other states who attended school in California. Spearheaded by the California county offices of education, Operation Graduate provides qualifying individuals with an opportunity to receive belated diplomas and additional recognition for their service to our country.

The graduation program was originated by the Massachusetts’s Department of Veterans' Services in 1999. Intended as an honor for WWII veterans, the program has since been expanded to include Korean and Vietnam war veterans. The California program also recognizes Japanese-American citizens who were interned in WWII relocation camps.

"During World War II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars, thousands of young men and women left high school to serve their country," said Colleen Wilcox, county superintendent. "Additionally, thousands of Japanese-American citizens were forced to leave their homes to be interned in relocation camps. Despite the inability of these individuals to complete high school, the majority went on to lead productive lives and contribute greatly to the American way of life. Operation Graduate is one way we can acknowledge them for their sacrifices and honor their contributions to our county and to the country."

Who May Apply

Through the SCCOE’s Operation Graduate, diplomas may be awarded to any individual who left high school to serve in the U.S. military during the period of September 16, 1940 through December 31, 1946 (WWII); or the period of June 25, 1950 through January 31, 1955 (Korean War); February 28, 1961 through May 7, 1975. Proof of military service and discharge must be provided.

For Japanese-American citizens who were prevented from completing high school due to internment, eligibility for receiving a diploma requires proof of having been interned in a relocation camp during the period of September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946.

All applicants must have attended a high school during the periods of 1937 to 1940, or 1946 to 1950, or 1961 - 1975. Diplomas may be awarded posthumously to honorees’ next-of-kin.

Individuals interested in receiving a diploma through Operation Graduate may call the Santa Clara County Office of Education’s Communication Services Department at 408-453-6514; visit the department located at 1290 Ridder Park Drive in San Jose; or visit www.sccoe.org for additional information and applications.

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