Four veterans receive their diplomas nearly 70 years after they left high school to join the Air Force
When Springdale School District celebrated the Class of 2022, they also recognized four remarkable individuals who would have graduated in 1956 if they hadn’t chosen to serve in the military. Dubbed “super seniors,” Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self were awarded honorary diplomas alongside the current graduating seniors.
These men, once seniors at Springdale High School, never received their diplomas. Self recounted, “Springdale didn’t recognize the GED test. I got a diploma from Little Rock Central.” The district only learned of their oversight when they encountered the men during lunch.
Their inclusion was a surprise for the graduating class, delivering a profound lesson. During the ceremony, Superintendent Jared Cleveland shared letters from Governor Asa Hutchinson and U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, acknowledging the veterans’ selflessness during the Korean conflict era.
Educators highlighted each veteran’s achievements since their Air Force service in 1956. Though it took 66 years, these diplomas were deeply deserved. As the saying goes, “Once a Bulldog Always a Bulldog!” Congratulations to the veterans, and heartfelt gratitude for their service, which enriches the fabric of our nation.
