Dominic Bersani, a veteran of both World War II and the Cold War, was honored with a high school diploma during a special ceremony at the Melvin Roads American Legion in East Greenbush, New York, on his 99th birthday. This recognition came as part of Operation Recognition, a program designed to award diplomas to veterans who left high school without graduating due to military service.
Bersani, born in 1926, began his education in Maine but enlisted in the U.S. Navy before completing his high school education. As a Fireman First Class, he was deployed to Adak Island in the Aleutian Islands, where he joined the Seabees. His team played a crucial role in transforming Adak into a staging area for military operations aimed at expelling Japanese forces from Attu and Kiska Islands, effectively ending their occupation of the Aleutians and North America.
Recognition for Service and Sacrifice
During the Cold War, Bersani served as a Ship Serviceman Class 3 from 1949 to 1954, stationed in Florida. He contributed to preparations for the shipment of Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs) to support U.S. forces during the Korean War, where American troops launched critical amphibious assaults against North Korean forces.
The East Greenbush Central School District played a pivotal role in celebrating Bersani’s achievements. Superintendent Dr. Kurtis Kotes and Columbia High School Principal Michael Harkin presented him with his diploma. Dr. Kotes remarked, “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.”
The district expressed its pride in a statement on their website, acknowledging the significance of the event and congratulating Bersani as a member of the Class of 2025.
A Milestone Celebration
Surrounded by friends and fellow veterans, Bersani’s birthday celebration was marked not only by the awarding of his diploma but also by the recognition of his lifetime of service. The event underscored the importance of honoring veterans and acknowledging their sacrifices, particularly for those who, like Bersani, had to leave their education to serve their country.
As Bersani reflects on his journey, the awarding of his high school diploma serves as a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service, courage, and resilience. The ceremony not only marks a personal achievement but also highlights the ongoing commitment of educational institutions to recognize the contributions of those who served in the military.
Bersani’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless veterans and the importance of ensuring that their achievements, both in service and education, are recognized and celebrated.
