Springdale, AR – The Springdale School District recently celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2022, but the festivities didn’t end there. In a heartwarming turn of events, the district also took the opportunity to honor four extraordinary individuals who would have graduated in 1956, had they not answered the call of duty and joined the military.
Meet Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self, aptly nicknamed the “super seniors.” These remarkable men, alongside the 484 graduating seniors of Springdale High School, finally received the honorary diplomas they so rightfully deserved.
Back in 1956, these four gentlemen were seniors at the high school, but circumstances prevented them from receiving their diplomas. “I took a GED test when I went into the Air Force and at the time, Springdale didn’t recognize the GED test,” shared Bob Self. “I got a diploma from Little Rock Central.” Little did they know, their alma mater had never recognized their achievements.
It wasn’t until recently that the school district stumbled upon this oversight while the men were enjoying a casual lunch together. Determined to right this wrong, Springdale Superintendent Jared Cleveland made sure the “super seniors” were included in the graduation ceremony, creating a poignant and unexpected surprise for the graduating class.
During the ceremony, Cleveland read heartfelt letters from Governor Asa Hutchinson and U.S. Representative Steve Womack, acknowledging the veterans’ selflessness and dedication to serving their country. Womack wrote, “They served during the time of the Korean conflict and beyond. At that time, they didn’t think about themselves; they didn’t think, ‘What about me?’ They answered the call of duty. Is that not the truest spirit of America?”
The educators also took the time to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of each veteran since joining the Air Force in 1956. It was a powerful reminder of the milestones these individuals had achieved despite not having their diplomas from Springdale High.
While it took a staggering 66 years for these four men to receive their diplomas, the honor and recognition were well-deserved. As the saying goes, “Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!” Congratulations to all four veterans on this momentous occasion, and a heartfelt thank you for their unwavering service. It is because of remarkable individuals like them that we are able to live in the great country we do today. Let’s join together in celebrating their achievements and expressing our gratitude for their sacrifices.
