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76-year-old Army Vet Finally Receives HS Diploma

By: Kristin Mazur
Updated: November 27, 2012
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For Russ Rothgeb, it was worth the wait.

Joining the U.S. Army back in 1953, Russ was just 1 year away from graduating from Hoagland High School.

"I joined the Army before I graduated from high school. The Korean War was still going on and I wanted to fight for my country. They needed soldiers. They needed military people and fighting for freedom seemed like the thing to do" says Russ.

But, there was always something missing. Now nearly 60 years later, Russ finally has what he's long awaited, a high school diploma.

"It's kind of like a dream come true, a lifelong dream come true. I have been so disappointed with myself and so ashamed for not graduating, that is has tortured me a lot over the years" he tells WFFT.

With a smile on his face and pride filling every inch of his body, Russ is proof that it's never too late to make your dream a reality.

"You're never too old to stop learning. You're never too old to stop being productive and being helpful. I think you should do that as long as you live" says Russ.

Russ says he doesn't know yet what his next move will be; though he'd like to go to college. Or he says he might just sit back and relax for a while.

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