Operation Recognition program awards high school diplomas to veterans of WWII, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War
The Guilderland Central School District is proud to be a partner in Operation Recognition, a New York State program which grants a high school diploma to any veteran who left school prior to graduation to serve in the military during World War II, the Korean Conflict, or 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.
Community members interested in participating in Operation Recognition
through the Guilderland Central School District are encouraged to contact
the
Office of the Superintendent at 456-6200, ext. 3102.