83-year-old veteran receives high school diploma

GRISWOLD, Conn. (WTNH) -- He left school to fight a war, now the decorated war veteran is getting yet another honor.

When Joseph Ali walked into the pep rally at Griswold High he thought he was there just to listen to the Star Spangled Banner.

However, the principal had a surprise in store for the Korean War veteran, who in 1950 left the 12th grade to join the navy, never graduating.

"This is just a nice thing to do for I believe an 83-year-old man who never complained that he didn't have it," said Dr. Mark Frizzell, "but it did sneak up in conversation with his neighbor that that's one regret he had in life."

Due to a law passed last year, which recognizes the sacrifice of those who left school to serve their country in times of war, Dr. Frizzell was able to present Ali with his high school diploma.

The school's 600 students gave the veteran a standing ovation and a moment he'll never forget.

"It's emotional, well cause a lot of memories were brought back," said Ali. "Make's it tough."

Having the presentation done during the pep rally was fitting as it honored academic excellence.

Ali's sacrifice and service was not lost on the students.

"It's awesome," said junior Taylor Chaffee. "I get so emotional about it and I just love seeing it."

After serving on the battleship USS Wisconsin, Ali worked at Electric Boat and raised five children.

"He certainly deserves it," said Debra J. Marschat, daughter. "Yes, he's worked very hard. He's been a great father."