A life nicely lived also needs to be nicely celebrated, and for one Ohio man who turned 102, Tuesday's birthday celebration got here with a long-awaited shock.
World Battle II veteran Darryl Gress marked one other main milestone as he celebrated his 102nd birthday with family and friends.
He earned his highschool diploma—an accomplishment that lasted greater than 80 years.
Gress left college early to work for his father on their household farm, then enlisted within the Navy throughout World Battle II.
“He retired in January of 1946,” Gress' good friend Bruce Kent informed WTVG. “He was on a fleet tug that took half in a number of main invasions within the Pacific.
After leaving the army, Gress mentioned he had an amazing profession working for the railroad, however he mentioned he felt like one thing was lacking.
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Kent approached Port Clinton Metropolis Faculties in Toledo, Ohio to use for a veteran's diploma.
On Tuesday, Superintendent Patrick Adkins delivered it to Gress for his party.
“One thing has been lacking in his life for a very long time and to have the ability to present that and to see the look on his face may be very particular,” Adkins mentioned.
Kent had tears in his eyes as Adkins introduced his diploma, realizing it was the achievement of a lifelong dream.
“I understand how blissful he’s and the way humbled he’s by it. He by no means thought he would get his diploma. He needed to wait 84 years for it,” Kent mentioned.
This yr, two extra veterans additionally acquired their highschool diplomas.
Like Gress, 99-year-old Charles Hen of West Virginia and 96-year-old Arthur Masterson of Rhode Island waited practically 80 years to obtain their diplomas after serving in World Battle II.
All three males say getting the diploma is a dream come true.
“Thanks, thanks, thanks. That is the perfect nation to stay in. I say that just about day by day and I feel that's why I'm nonetheless right here,” Gress mentioned.
