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"Operation Recognition"

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The State of Kansas sponsors "Operation Recognition" to honor World War II and Korean era veterans who left school to join the military and never received a high school diploma.

About the Program

WW2 Group PhotoThousands of young men and women across this county left the comforts of home and hearth to serve gallantly in the armed forces during WW II and the Korean Conflict theatres. Their sacrifice ensured our freedom, built our country into a superpower, and shaped the entire course of history throughout the world. 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.

In recognition of their outstanding contribution, The Kansas Commission on Veterans' Affairs, through a program called "Operation Recognition" for WW II and Korean Conflict Veterans, is working with schools, cities, and service organizations to award Honorary High School Diplomas to qualifying WW II and Korean Conflict veterans. This is a small, overdue, gesture of our society's gratitude for the sacrifice these individuals made in the name of freedom.

Eligibility

  • All "Honorably" Discharged veterans who served in WWII between September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946 and Korean War veterans who served between June 27, 1950 and January 31, 1955 who did not graduate from High School are eligible.
  • Those who have obtained their diploma but entered service before they could participate in their graduation ceremonies are also encouraged to apply.
  • Diplomas can be awarded posthumously.

Required Paperwork

  • Application for "WW II and Korean Conflict Veterans" High School Diploma
  • Copy of "Honorable" Discharge papers attached to application
  • Discharge papers may be requested through the local County Registrar Office or through Military Archives, 2800 SW Topeka Blvd. Topeka, KS 66611-1287. Requests submitted on Standard Form 180 (1 MB PDF) only. (KANSAS ONLY)

Diploma's Awarded

426 WWII and 21 Korean Conflict veterans have received diplomas.