This gentleman, James Shipley, was a member of the well-known World War II aviation group known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
From the article: Military historian Jeremy Amick says Shipley didn’t have a chance to earn his diploma years ago. He attended an all-black high school that wasn’t credentialed through 12th grade. Shipley would have had to travel to Sedalia for his final year, and he didn’t have the resources to do so.
He had not yet finished high school when he went into the Army, and went to war. I can only say BZ to his drive to complete his mission. He is now a high school graduate, and we should all be proud of him.
‘Bout time the school system stepped up to award his honorary diploma. And typically of his generation former SSG Shipley didn’t push for this himself, it was done by the historian that wrote the book of the SSG’s experiences with the Tuskegee Airmen. And, typically; per the article, there was no shortage of politicians taking advantage of the camera photo ops time. Y’all click the linie that Ex gives and go a little deeper to click the linkie of the original MO Newspaper Article for more.
Thank you for your service Former SSG James Shipley. Hand Salute!
Thanks Ex. Good Article. I like these Historical related posts. Get lost in the linkies sometimes. Good times!
“…Shipley acknowledged he wasn’t a good student during high school…”
Heh. Neither was I, I was, ahh, distracted. Congrats Mr’s Shipley, now go for your A&P* and start raking in the $$$.
*Airframe and Powerplant License
Got a better education then than he would’ve now- even if he didn’t complete- Congrats and well done Staff Sergeant!
Thanks for keeping them flying Mr. Shipley! You are a great American sir.