United States veterans have done so much for the country, yet most citizens don’t comprehend the depth of sacrifice and service provided by these patriots. No matter their job or length of service, they pledged their lives to this country.
The actions of too many veterans often go unnoticed. The hard work they put in to become the best at what they do can get lost in translation. Some go above and beyond to improve their skills and education in ways the public never sees.
After an entire century of walking this earth, one military veteran recently received confirmation of his hard work during his time in service. His official accolade was lost for decades, but now he has been reunited with his certificate of accomplishment.
From Breitbart:
A 100-year-old veteran of three wars finally received something he had been waiting for since the 1960s in College Park, Maryland, on Tuesday.When U.S. Air Force Officer John “Jack” Milton earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) 58 years ago, he was very proud, 11 Alive reported.
Milton served with the Army Air Corps in 1943 during World War II and flew in Korea and Vietnam. However, when he was shipped off to Vietnam in 1966, he never got his diploma.
“I thought about it many times that I was unable to attend my ceremony after all that hard work,” he told NBC 4 Washington.
Milton was surprised and delighted when he was honored with a graduation ceremony during a luncheon at a university art gallery on campus. He was praised by UMGC Associate Vice President for Stateside Military Operations Nicole DeRamus during the long-awaited graduation ceremony.
“Thank you for everything you have done in serving our country, giving back to your alma mater, and so generously supporting those learners who need us most,” DeRamus said.
Milton served during one of the most controversial military operations in U.S. history. The Vietnam War ended in January 1973 following a peace agreement between the United States and North Vietnam. Milton served during the height of the war which left 58,220 American military personnel dead.
The belated graduation ceremony displayed images of Milton throughout his military career while serving as a pilot in the three wars. Milton’s delight over receiving his diploma was contagious.
“I’ve had many ceremonies throughout my life, fortunately, but this has to be the top,” Milton said.
Milton continued his life of service after the military as a citizen. After the death of his wife in 2014, their former nurse of 20 years brought Milton into her family. Ugandan immigrant Nora Ubala and her family unofficially adopted Milton after years of service to him and his wife.
Key Takeaways:
- A 100-year-old veteran who served in three wars finally received his college diploma.
- S. Air Force Officer John “Jack” Milton earned his bachelor’s degree 58 years ago.
- Before he could get his diploma, the former pilot was shipped off to Vietnam.
Source: Breitbart
