Veterans Received Belated Diplomas Through "Operation Graduate"

San Jose, CA – Survivors of the Battle of the Bulge, the assault on Iwo Jima, and the amphibious landing at Da Nang were among 15 veterans who received their high school diplomas during "Operation Graduate" on July 14 at the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE).

The ceremony was the third held by the SCCOE to award diplomas to veterans whose high school education was interrupted by service in World War II or the Korean or Vietnam conflicts.

The SCCOE has one of the most extensive Operation Graduate programs in the state. "We are proud to honor and acknowledge sacrifices made by those who, in the course of serving their country, were prevented from completing their education," said Colleen Wilcox, Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools.

At the ceremony, the veterans celebrated their accomplishments with family, friends and county officials. The program included a color guard, commendations from legislators, and the awarding of diplomas. The veterans were invited to wear their medals or uniforms as they wished.

Operation Graduate is a nationwide program that was started by the Department of Veterans Affairs in Massachusetts in 1999. Santa Clara County conducted one of the first ceremonies in California in April 2003. The July 2004 class of graduates includes veterans of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps:

MORE INFORMATION Photos from September 3, 2003 Recognition Photos from April 16, 2003 Recognition Overview of the project Read more about the Operation Graduate project Apply On-line Submit request for graduation on the web Board Resolution Read our board resolution in support of Operation Graduate.

SCCOE Website | Overview | Apply On-line | Recognition | Resolution