Vietnam veteran receives diploma

The State of Ohio recognizes the important contributions and sacrifices veterans made in the defense of our nation. During World War II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War, thousands of young men and women across this country left high school to serve in the military before completing the requirements for their high school diploma.

At an age when most are concerned about proms, football games, and graduation parties, our veterans were concerned with preserving our lives and liberties.

Upon returning home, many veterans were not able to finish high school. They led productive lives and built our communities.

These veterans have made significant contributions to our country.The issuance of an honorary high school diploma recognizes that what our veterans did not get in the school classroom, they unselfishly and bravely earned through their contributions to the United States of America.

At the Nov. 4 West Clermont Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Dr. Gary Brooks presented an Amelia High School diploma to Marine Corporal E4 Bill Theis who left Amelia High School in 1961 to serve four years during the Vietnam War.

Theis returned from the service, got his GED and graduated with honors from Raymond Walters College. He is a retired teacher.

"The one thing I didn't have was my high school diploma," stated Theis. "Now it feels good to be a graduate of Amelia High School."

The Union Township Police Honor Guard posted the colors and stood at attention as Theis received his diploma and then honored him by escorting him out of the meeting.