Operation Recognition

Governor Siegelman signed a bill sponsored by State Senators Butler, Little, and Means, together with the Alabama Department of Education and the Alabama Department of Veterans' Affairs that will grant a high school diploma to any World War II veteran who was not able to complete their high school curriculum due to their military service (Act 2001-345).

Veterans who meet the following criteria will be eligible:

·  Inducted into military service between Sept. 16, 1940, and Dec. 31, 1946;

·  Received an honorable discharge;

·  Started high school between 1937-1946; and,

·  Was scheduled to graduate from high school between 1941-1950.

These diplomas are for any veteran, who attended high school in the State of Alabama immediately prior to entering military service and did not receive their diploma.  Receipt of a G.E.D. or a degree from a college or university will not affect this award.  Family members who would like to apply for a diploma posthumously for a veteran, who has died, may do so.

Contact the Principal’s Office of your former High School, if still in existence, or your County Superintendent of Education to make application for your diploma.  Diplomas will be presented to the Veteran or next of kin along with the High School graduation class beginning in May of 2002.