Hudson Valley Veteran Receives High School Diploma after 75 Years

Last week teens throughout the Hudson Valley were walking across a stage and receiving their high school diplomas while getting ready to head off to college or into the real world.

This wasn't the case for one Hudson Valley resident.

According to a recent Youtube post by MrRidgedog, when Eddie Maier of Wurtsboro was set to graduate high school for the first time he received the call to serve our country during World War II. Because of Maier's sudden departure 75 years ago, he never received his high school diploma. That all changed on Sunday, June 25 when he learned he'd finally receive it.

During the graduation ceremony for the Monticello High School Class of 2017 Mr. Maier, who is now 92 years old, was honored through the New York State Department of Veteran Affairs with his very own high school diploma.

Not only did Maier receive his diploma, he was also welcomed with a standing ovation and moving speech. Watch below as Eddie crosses the stage and accepts his hard earned and well deserved diploma.

Thank you for your service and everything you've done for our country, Mr. Maier and congratulations.