Bob McKean who coordinates "Operation Recognition" has been a guest on The Broadcast.
If you think you may qualify for this program please contact Bob (see below).
And if you know anyone who might be interested in this program please pass the information along.
Thanks. -Steve



"Operation Recognition"
for WWII Veterans




About the Program
During the 1940’s, thousands of young men and women across this country left high school and the comforts of home and hearth to serve gallantly in the armed forces during WWII. Their sacrifice ensured our freedom, built our country into a superpower, and shaped the entire course of history throughout the world. After the war, many of these veterans were not able to finish high school for various reasons, but led productive lives and built our communities over their lifetime. In recognition of their outstanding contribution, The Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, through a program called "Operation Recognition" for WWII Veterans, is working with individual cities and towns to award full high school diplomas to qualifying WWII veterans. This is a small, overdue, gesture of our society’s gratitude for the sacrifice these individuals made in the name of freedom.

Eligibility
All "honorably" discharged veterans who served in WWII between September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946 who did not graduate from high school are eligible.
Attendance in high school ranging from 1937-1946 with graduation class (range) years of 1941-1950 is required.
Those who have earned a GED are also eligible and urged to apply.
Diplomas can also be awarded posthumously.


Required Paperwork
Application for "WWII Veterans" High School Diploma
Copy of "Honorable" Discharge papers attached to application
Discharge papers available through Military Records, 239 Causeway St. Boston, MA 02114 (617)-727-2964


Participating High Schools
The list of Massachusetts cities/towns high schools participating in this program grows daily. Currently this list includes, but is not limited to: Agawam, Athol, Boston, Brockton, Chicopee, Fitchburg, Gardner, Hudson, Leominster, Ludlow, Marlborough, Templeton, Palmer, Reading, Springfield, Turners Falls, Quincy, Winchendon, Woburn and Worcester.
If your city/town high school is not on this list, contact Robert McKean (see below) to determine whether your school has been added to the list, is currently considering the program, or if you want the school to be petitioned to consider the program. The information required is the name and address of the school superintendent, town officials, and veteran agent.


For additional information, contact:
Robert McKean
Director of State Veterans' Memorial Cemeteries
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services
1390 Main Street
Agawam, MA 01001
Phone: 413-821-9500
Fax: 413-821-9839 FAX
E-Mail: Robert.McKean@state.ma.us




photo: Diploma Ceremony

May 1999 Diploma Ceremony at Gardner (Mass.) High School




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