He was supposed to graduate in 1945. Then 1946. This veteran is receiving his diploma in 2021

At 93, veteran receives his high school diploma

Alvin, Texas — Graduations are usually reason to celebrate — especially when a person has waited three-quarters of a century for their diploma. 

At 93, Pat Moore proves that age, like the year on a diploma, is just a number. He was supposed to graduate high school in 1945. Then again in 1946. But life had other plans.

Pat Moore was supposed to graduate high school in 1945. He's finally receiving his diploma in 2021.  CBS News

"Verna Browning failed me!" Moore said about not passing his English literature course. "I hate to read!" 

Instead of graduating, he returned to high school the following year, but was then drafted into the U.S. Army Air Corps a few months before graduation. "Uncle Sam was calling so I had to go," he said. 

After nearly four years of service, he came home to fly crop duster planes and start a family. Being a father and a pilot left little time for school. 

Moore finally received his diploma earlier this year in a small ceremony.  What made him want to come back and get his diploma? 

"That little girl right there," he said of his great-granddaughter, who also graduated from high school this year. 

His great-granddaughter, Bryssa, was one of 697 students who graduated from Alvin High School this year. It was the same school he was supposed to graduate from decades ago. 

Pat Moore and his great-granddaughter Bryssa in their graduation gowns.  CBS News
f

We and our partners use cookies to understand how you use our site, improve your experience and serve you personalized content and advertising. Read about how we use cookies in our cookie policy and how you can control them by clicking Manage Settings. By continuing to use this site, you accept these cookies.