In a ceremony on October 5, 2000, the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA) and the Department of Education jointly launched a program to honor World War II era veterans who left school to join the military and never received a high school diploma. Known as Operation Recognition, the program will award a state-endorsed high school diploma to any New Jersey veteran who left a New Jersey high school to enter military service during World War II.

"This is a small recognition we can give in appreciation to those who sacrificed their education to ensure our freedoms," said Michael Warner, deputy commissioner for veteran affairs, DMAVA. 

"I am pleased to support this most worthy program," said Commissioner of Education David Hespe. "Through their patriotism and sacrifice, the men and women who served our nation during World War II have justly earned the distinction as ‘the greatest generation.’"

Programs similar to Operation Recognition have been established in other states including Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, Wisconsin and West Virginia.

Who qualifies:

~ Current New Jersey resident.

~ Left high school to join the military between the dates of September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946.

~ Discharged honorably or under honorable conditions.

~ All branches of service including Merchant Marine and Coast Guard are eligible.

~ Veterans who have since earned a GED are still eligible.

~ Diplomas may also be issued posthumously. Surviving family members of eligible veterans are encouraged to apply.

Paperwork needed:

~ A copy of your DD-214 or discharge papers, do NOT send originals!

~ The name and address of the high school you attended.

~ The year you would have graduated.

~ Your name, address and daytime phone number.

Send Request to:

Operation Recognition 

New Jersey Department of Military & Veterans Affairs

Eggert Crossing Road, Box 340

Trenton, NJ 08625-0340

Requests that are received by October 13, 2000 will be invited to the first statewide Operation Recognition diploma ceremony to be held during the week of Veterans Day.

For more information: Call Patty Ann Richter at (609) 530-6868