Created: 6/3/2009 3:45:45 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- James Roche, who is a World War II veteran, feels very comfortable in his green army uniform, but he had no problems wearing "Tiger Red."
On Wednesday, the 82-year-old veteran wore the colors of Andrew Jackson High School. Roche received a diploma from the school he attended 65 years ago before enlisting in the Navy.
"I was either going to be drafted or going into the military," said Roche from his Northside home, preparing for graduation ceremonies.
This week, Roche and with 12 other World War II and Korean War veterans are receiving diplomas during graduation ceremonies in recognition of them having their education disrupted by war.
"I missed the fun in high school, but our country comes first," said Roche, who joined the Navy as he was entering his junior year at Andrew Jackson High.
"It's wonderful," said Margie Roche as she prepared for the big day taking part in her husband's graduation, which was held at the University of North Florida.
Roche was not the only veteran who got a diploma from Andrew Jackson High. Robert Marvin Center, who served during the Korean War, also got his diploma.
©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
