The Class of 2022 at Springdale School District’s graduation ceremony held a very special surprise.
Amidst the celebrations for the recent graduates, four extraordinary veterans who would have graduated in 1956 were honored. These special individuals, Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self, known fondly as the “super seniors,” were finally awarded honorary diplomas alongside the graduating seniors.
In 1956, these young men were on the brink of completing high school when they made the noble decision to serve their country. Carl Self reflected, “I took a GED test when I joined the Air Force, but Springdale didn’t recognize the GED at the time. I ended up getting a diploma from Little Rock Central.” Only recently did the school district find out about their missing diplomas, a discovery made during a lunch meetup.
The presence of these “super seniors” during the graduation ceremony was a heartwarming addition for the Class of 2022. Their inclusion not only honored their achievements but imparted a profound lesson about respect and sacrifice. Springdale Superintendent Jared Cleveland shared touching letters from Governor Asa Hutchinson and U.S. Representative Steve Womack, lauding the veterans for their bravery and selfless service.
Womack expressed, “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 then recounted each veteran’s remarkable journey and accomplishments since their commitment to the Air Force in 1956.
After waiting 66 years, these distinguished men finally held their well-earned diplomas from their beloved Springdale High School. This recognition celebrated their invaluable contributions and affirmed the saying, “Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!”
A hearty congratulations to Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self on receiving their honorary diplomas! Their unwavering service to our nation is worthy of the highest compliments. It is thanks to individuals like them that we enjoy the freedoms we hold dear today. Let’s honor their story by sharing it and congratulating these heroes on their significant accomplishments and sacrifices.
