Massapequa Veteran Gets His High School Diploma 58 Years Later

The Massapequa Board of Education awarded a high school diploma to Vietnam War veteran Michael John Brigante Jr. at its meeting on April 12.

The New York State Education Department’s Operation Recognition program allows school districts to award diplomas to veterans of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War who left school before graduating in order to serve their country. Brigante, a Massapequa resident for more than 40 years, served active duty in the Army in 1961, and remained in the Army National Guard until 1966.

With his family in attendance, Brigante was presented with his Massapequa High School diploma by Board of Education President Timothy Taylor, Superintendent Lucille Iconis and Executive Assistant for Guidance Paul Weber.

Photo: Massapequa School District