89-Year-Old Army Vet Graduates From Assumption College
WORCESTER (CBS) - It's a graduation nearly 70 years in the making.
Henry Prunier attended Assumption College up until 1942 before enlisting in the Army and fighting in World War II.
When he came home, he had to join the family business and never returned to Assumption.
WBZ-TV's Paul Burton reports
Henry did however continue his studies over the years at University of California Berkley and UMass, amassing enough credits where he would have been able to graduate.
Assumption College President Francesco Cesareo says that when the school realized that, the next move was a no-brainer.
"When we recognized he had also taken courses outside of Assumption after his service in the military, we realized he fulfilled all the requirements so it was time to recognize his achievements and his service to the country," said Cesareo.
On Saturday this 89-year-old decorated war hero will receive his Bachelor's degree from Assumption College.
"I always thought I should get it, but I never thought I would get it this late stage in the game," said Prunier.
Henry's the perfect living example of how it's never too late to get a college degree.
"(It's) not an honorary degree but a straight degree from 1946, which is unusual. I will probably be the oldest grad from Assumption College that gets a degree."
Prunier is thrilled for the opportunity.
"It's a very long time and I really, really am grateful to facility and trustees of assumption to recognizing me after that length of time," said Prunier.
