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LCOE program offers high school diploma for qualifying veterans, Japanese American WWII internees
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – A special program offered by the Lake County Office of Education is giving veterans and internees the opportunity to receive long-overdue high school diplomas.
Many people in were unable to graduate with their high school class due to military service in World War II (Dec. 7, 1941-Dec. 31, 1946), the Korean War (June 25, 1950-Jan. 31, 1955), or the Vietnam War (Feb. 28, 1961-May 7, 1975), or because they were interned in WWII relocation centers for Japanese Americans, the Lake County Office of Education reported.
These individuals may now receive their high school diplomas from the Lake County Office of Education Operation Recognition program.
The program was offered for the first time in 2013. Last June, three veterans received their high school diplomas: Vietnam veterans Michael Dondero and James Sparks Jr., and Korean War veteran Lee Woodberry Sr.
Family members may apply for diplomas on behalf of qualifying persons who are deceased. The diploma recipient or the surviving family member must be current or former residents of Lake County.
“We are honored to offer the Operation Recognition program to recognize those who sacrificed for our country. This program is entirely free, and we hope many individuals and families will take advantage of the opportunity,” said Brock Falkenberg, senior director of Human Resources at Lake County Office of Education.
Form DD214 (or equivalent) or documentation of internment is required.
For assistance in locating discharge papers, contact the Lake County Veterans Service Office at 707-263-2384, 285 N. Main St., Lakeport.
Applications must be received by April 1, 2014, to qualify for the spring 2014 diploma awards ceremony, which includes a reception for honorees and family members.
For an application, visit www.lakecoe.org and type “Operation Recognition” in the search option, or contact Lake County Office of Education Human Resources at 707-262-4151.