WWII vet receives his high school diploma 71 years after getting drafted
Just a few months before his high school graduation in 1945, Abner Simon was drafted into the U.S. Armed Forces to fight in World War II. Finally, after 71 years, Simon has received his high school diploma.
Simon, now 89 years old, stopped by the Orangefield Independent School District in Texas on Friday to get a copy of his transcript, which revealed that officials had actually marked Simon as a graduate in 1945. Sadly, it took Simon 71 years to receive the message.
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According to WFAA, when superintendent Dr. Stephen Patterson heard about the mishap, he rounded up the school band and threw Simon an impromptu graduation in the high school's gymnasium. Simon even got to wear a bright orange cap and gown, making the whole thing very official.
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"As a Bobcat you have set the standard that all of these Bobcats are striving to achieve, and we appreciate that," said principal Zach Quinn. "So, as principal of Orangeville High School, it is my great pleasure, pride and honor that I certify you as a graduate."
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Simon then made a small speech, telling the students in attendance to "choose your friends wisely."
"Don't stop until you get your diploma," Simon told the audience.
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Simon is now officially accepted as part of the graduating class of 2017, and has been invited back to speak at the school's graduation in May.
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