A group of Monterey-area veterans who never got to complete their high school education because of military service received their diplomas this year.
Operation Recognition Veterans Diploma Project was launched in 2019 after the Monterey County Office of Education changed its diploma policy.
Five veterans received their diplomas this year decades after their schooling and service. They had served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.
Monterey partnered with the Veterans Transition Center to find the five veterans honored. The veterans ranged in age from 73 to 95. School officials said it was an honor to give each a diploma.
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2020 Operation Recognition Veterans Diploma Project Recipients
- Delbert Wermuth, Jr., Carmel High School, World War II and Korean War, Marines USMCR III(b) and Navy Seaman First Class
- James Nannie, Seaside High School, Vietnam War, Army Sgt. E
- Milton John Mocettini, Gonzales High School, World War II, Navy Seaman First Class
- Jess Estrada, Salinas High School, Korean War, Navy SH2
- Francis John Rubbo, Gonzales High School, World War II, Navy Fireman First Class
