Operation Recognition program awards high school diplomas to veterans of WWII, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War

In the fall of 2000, New York State Governor George E. Pataki signed into law legislation that would grant a high school diploma to all students who left school prior to graduation to serve in the military during World War II, based on knowledge and experience gained while in service, as part of the program Operation Recognition. A year later, veterans of the Korean Conflict were added into the program.

In November 2005, the law was amended once again to also include veterans who served in the Vietnam War (Southeast Asian Hostilities) and who were unable, for any reason, to complete a secondary education.

The rules for awarding such diplomas are the same for veterans of World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War:

• Candidates must submit evidence of service during World War II (December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946), the Korean Conflict (June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955), or the Vietnam War (Southeast Asian Hostilities) (May 1, 1961 though April 30, 1975). Such documentation may include discharge papers or other such documents or a letter from a recognized veterans agency affirming such service.

• Candidates do not need to show evidence of attendance at a school in New York State. They need only affirm in writing that they do not possess a high school diploma.

• Candidates possessing a High School Equivalency (or GED) diploma are eligible for the program.

• Diplomas may be awarded to next of kin, if eligibility is established.