SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — A veteran of the Vietnam War who attended Central High School during the 1950s will receive his high school diploma on Sept. 20 after he withdrew from school to serve in the military, according to San Angelo ISD.

The district stated that Manuel Gonzales attended Central High School from 1956 to 1959, withdrawing in 1959 to enlist in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and never earning his high school diploma as a result. This will soon change, however, as Texas Education Code 28.0251 allows school districts to issue high school diplomas to certain veterans.

"San Angelo ISD recognizes what a tremendous sacrifice Mr. Gonzales made to forgo the opportunity to earn a high school diploma in exchange for serving the United States during the Vietnam War," SAISD said.

Gonzales will be presented with a high school diploma during a ceremony at San Angelo Stadium from 6:35 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., just before the Central High School Bobcats' football game against the Belton High School Tigers.

On behalf of the SAISD Board of Trustees and the District, SAISD Superintendent Dr. Christopher Moran will present Gonzales with a Central High School diploma and letterman jacket. Texas House Rep. Drew Darby and Karin Kuykendall, with Congressman August Pfluger’s office, will also honor Mr. Gonzales during the recognition.

"The district extends our sincere gratitude to Mr. Gonzales and his family and honors him for the strength, courage, dedication and sacrifices involved in serving our Nation and protecting our freedom," SAISD said.

News Source : https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/local-news/san-angelo-isd/vietnam-war-veteran-to-receive-chs-high-school-diploma/