91-Year-Old High School Graduate

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Robert Morris Senior has been to many graduations in his lifetime. At 91-years old, he's watched his kids and grandkids graduate from high school and college.

He never made it to his own graduation because he was serving in World War II. "He put his life on hold so he could serve his country. Many of these guys from the greatest generation never got the chance to graduate from high school. It's nice we can award him a high school diploma," said School Board Member Stan Jordan.

With his family and his wife of 70 years by his side, Morris got ready to accept his diploma almost like any other high school graduate. His family couldn't be prouder. "Parents take care of their kids their whole lives. This is a chance for the kids to do something for them," said son Robert Morris, Jr.

Terry Parker High School was the 1st school in Duval County in 2001 to not only award such diplomas to World War II veterans, but to also invite the veterans to receive their diplomas during the actual end of the year graduation ceremony. Terry Parker was happy to include Morris in this year's graduation.

"I think young people today need to see the greatest generation so they can have the appreciation for the courage and sacrifice and know what selfless service is all about," said Jordan.

For everyone in the crowd and everyone graduating it was an honor to watch Robert Morris Senior finally receive the diploma and the recognition he earned nearly 75 years ago.

The State Department of Education recently revived the program, which started back in 2001, to award veterans with high school diplomas.

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