Fred Butler 106-year-old World War II veteran who received his high school diploma Country: USA

Biography of Fred Butler

Fred Butler, a 106-year-old World War II veteran, recently received his high school diploma. Born and raised in Beverly, Massachusetts, Butler had to leave school in the ninth grade to work and support his mother and five siblings. Despite not being a troublemaker or a bad student, he had to sacrifice his education. While his peers were getting an education, young Fred spent his days working at a local photography studio.

Throughout his life, Butler was married for 65 years and raised five children. He served in the military during World War II and later worked for many years in the local water department. However, one question always lingered in his mind: would he ever be able to finish high school?

Finally, at the age of 107, Butler's soul found peace when he was awarded an honorary diploma in a ceremony attended by school officials, state legislators, and Beverly's mayor, Bill Scanlon. Donning an academic cap and gown, Butler thanked everyone who helped him become a "graduate" and arranged the prestigious diploma ceremony. Holding the precious document in his hands, he exclaimed, "Of course, I appreciate this."

Cathy Butler, Fred's daughter-in-law, revealed that her father-in-law always regretted dropping out of school and emphasized the importance of education for his children and grandchildren. Mike Calabro, one of Butler's grandsons, shared that his grandfather rewards him with $5 for every "A" he earns in school.

Interestingly, it was Fred's daughter-in-law, Cathy Butler, who took active steps to ensure that Fred received his diploma. She believed it would uplift his spirits, as he had been mourning the loss of his wife, Ruth, who passed away the previous year. During the ceremony, Butler expressed concern that the diploma was being awarded to him without deserving it since he hadn't taken the final exams. However, Mayor Scanlon reassured the "student" that he had done so much good in his life that there was no doubt he was truly deserving of the diploma.