70 years later, World War II veteran receives high school diploma
SHAMOKIN, Pa. -- A 92-year-old man who served in World War II was finally able to graduate 70 years after he started high school.
CBS Pitsburgh reports Elmer Shinskie left 10th grade and was drafted into the Army in 1943.
Thanks to the Operation Recognition program, Shamokin Area High School is able to grant diplomas to honorably discharged World War II veterans. Shinskie received his diploma at the ceremony. He received a standing ovation.
"He always talked about it," Shinskie's wife, Esther, said. "He always said maybe he'd go back to school. But with working, he didn't have time to go back to school. It's something that I never thought I'd ever see."
Shinskie's two daughters also brought their families along to watch him graduate.
He says he already has a place in mind of where he wants to hang his newly earned diploma.