News Release - On Memorial Day, Etheridge Seeks Recognition for Overlooked Heroes

News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

May 23, 2003

Contact: Sara Lang
Phone: (202) 225-4531

On Memorial Day, Etheridge Seeks Recognition for Overlooked Heroes

"Operation Recognition" Awards Diplomas to
World War II Veterans Who Left High School to Serve Our Country

RALEIGH - As Americans pause this Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives in service to our nation, U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge urged eligible North Carolina veterans to participate in "Operation Recognition." This nationwide program, which came to North Carolina in 2001, awards diplomas to World War II veterans who left high school for military service.

"This is a special gesture of our state's appreciation for the sacrifices these brave men and women made for their country," Etheridge said. "This generation and these veterans defended and secured our freedom and shaped the course of history. We are forever indebted to them and honor their brave service."

World War II veterans or their families who are interested in receiving a diploma should contact Debbie Privette in Etheridge's office at 919-829-9122 or 1-888-262-6202. Either the veteran or a family member must fill out a short one-page application and present a copy of discharge papers (DD 214). To be eligible, a veteran must have attended North Carolina high school between the years of 1937 and 1946 with graduation class years of 1940 to 1950. The veteran must have left high school prior to graduation to enlist in the armed forces of the United States and must have served in World War II between September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946, earning an honorable discharge. Diplomas may be awarded posthumously.

"Operation Recognition" originated in Massachusetts and was signed into law in North Carolina by Governor Easley in 2001. The program is administered by the State Board of Education. 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.