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Montezuma High School holds graduation ceremony for local veteran

MONTEZUMA, Ind. (WTHI) – Robert McKeown was just a teenager when he was drafted into the army in December 1945.

“Once they say you’re drafted, you don’t have a choice,” said McKeown.

McKeown served in World War II. Prior to being drafted he had completed the 11th grade at Montezuma High School. McKeown would have to miss out on his senior year.

“I thought well I’m not going back to school next year,” said McKeown, “I had one more year to go.”

McKeown would go on to attain his GED afterward. Years later, his story would catch the attention of members within the Southwest Parke School Board and Jami Britton.

“It was brought up that there was a gentleman that got called to service and did not receive his diploma,” said Britton, principal of Montezuma Elementary School.

Wednesday afternoon students, staff, parents and veterans filled the gymnasium for the annual Veteran’s Day celebration. Students paid tribute to veterans by singing patriotic songs. The event is done every year at Montezuma Elementary School.

“Each year we try to do something special,” said Britton.

That special element of this year’s celebration would be the graduation McKeown never had. At the program’s end, Britton presented McKeown his diploma in front of family and friends, students and other veterans. The crowd joined in a standing ovation as his name was called.

“It feels great,” said McKeown, “It’s a surprise, really I was surprised.”

It was the perfect graduation as McKeown walked across the gymnasium, setting an example for the young faces who watched.

“I think what our students learned is that no matter what don’t give up, that you keep going until you get that diploma and how important an education is,” said Britton.