In the year 2000, Operation Recognition was begun as a joint Department of Education and Department of Veterans’ Affairs program honoring WW II veterans who entered military service and did not graduate from their hometown high school or receive a diploma.

Across the state of Nebraska nearly 450 WW II veterans took advantage of this program and received their diplomas in a number of ceremonies held across the state. Operation Recognition exceeded all expectations in terms of participation, publicity and public enthusiasm!

WW II veterans were strongly encouraged to participate in Operation Recognition, as were schools throughout the state. Many schools held special graduation ceremonies for the vets on Veterans Day and many veterans shared the stage with members of the Class of 2000 on their graduation day. You can’t help but wonder how many young graduates accepted their diplomas that year while standing beside family members who had served in WW II who were also accepting long-awaited high school diplomas. Just imagine the family picture that must have made for the graduate’s scrapbook.

Based on the success of Operation Recognition, Governor Johanns directed that the program continue into 2001 and include Korean veterans as well as WW II veterans.

The program came to the attention of the CCHS Alumni Association Permanent Corresponding Secretary shortly after the first round of diplomas were awarded. There was no fanfare, no special ceremonies, but regardless we are proud to welcome two Operation Recognition WW II veterans into our association. You will find their names followed by (Operation Recognition – WW II Gradate) in the classes they chose to graduate with.