In a heartwarming ceremony at the Melvin Roads American Legion in East Greenbush, New York, veteran Dominic Bersani was awarded a high school diploma at the age of 99. The event, which coincided with his birthday celebration, honored Bersani’s remarkable service during both World War II and the Cold War.
Bersani, who was born in 1926, began his education in Maine but left before graduating to enlist in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Serving as a Fireman First Class, he was deployed to Adak Island in the Aleutian Islands, where he joined the Seabees. His efforts contributed to transforming Adak Island into a crucial staging area for operations aimed at driving Japanese forces from Attu and Kiska Island, ultimately ending their occupation of the Aleutians.
During the Cold War, Bersani served as Ship Serviceman Class 3 and was stationed in Florida from 1949 to 1954. His responsibilities included preparing Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs) for shipment to support U.S. forces in the Korean War.
The diploma was conferred as part of Operation Recognition, a program established by New York State that allows veterans who did not graduate high school due to their military service to receive their diplomas. To be eligible, veterans must be residents of New York State, have engaged in active duty for at least one day, and have been honorably discharged.
During the ceremony, Dr. Kurtis Kotes, Superintendent of the East Greenbush Central School District, and Michael Harkin, Principal of Columbia High School, presented Bersani with his diploma. Kotes expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is humbling to be part of the process to award a high school diploma to Mr. Bersani. He truly is part of the ‘Greatest Generation’ of our country. The East Greenbush Central School District is exceptionally grateful to Mr. Bersani for his service to our country. We are honored to celebrate this milestone with him, and it is a fitting tribute that this occurs during the fanfare of his 99th birthday!”
The East Greenbush Central School District also acknowledged Bersani’s achievement on their website, celebrating him with the message, “Congratulations to Dominic Bersani ’25!” This recognition not only honors his academic achievement but also pays tribute to his significant contributions to the nation throughout his military service.
The ceremony was attended by friends, fellow veterans, and community members, all coming together to celebrate Bersani’s life and accomplishments. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who served their country and the importance of recognizing their contributions, regardless of when they may have occurred.
