Submitted photo.
A 99-year-old World War II veteran who would have graduated in 1942 if he hadn't left school to support his family received an honorary diploma on Tuesday from the Le Roy Central School District Board of Education.
Steve Vernaccini went to work for Lapp Insulators at age 17. A year later, he was drafted and became a radar operator in the U.S. Army for nearly three years.
"I can't explain to you how gratifying this is to receive this," Vernacinni said. "I'd like to have had this a long time ago, but Uncle Sam wanted me, so I did what he wanted."
Vernacinni will celebrate his 100th birthday on Oct. 16.
While attending Le Roy Schools, Vernacinni was a member of the High School Band. He played the baritone horn for five years. He was also the track manager.
Principal David Russell presented Vernaccini with his honorary diploma with his family in attendance.
Russell said Vernaccini is a person who embodies the true spirit of what it means to be an Oatkan Knight.
"On December 8, 1941, the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D. Roosevelt famously stated, 'The American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.' The 'absolute victory' referred to by President Roosevelt would not have been possible without people like Mr. Steve Vernaccini. Mr. Vernaccini answered the call to serve during World War II, and in doing so, sacrificed the opportunity to make many memories with his family and friends."
Information and photos courtesy Le Roy Central School District.
