"When our country went to war in 1941, I, like so many young boys at that time, wanted to go into the service. Not being old enough, I had to wait, but as soon as I reached the age of 17, I dropped out of high school and enlisted in the Navy. After the war and 4 years in the Navy, I returned to Las Vegas where I married and raised a family. But there was a void in my life for never graduating. It was embarrassing to apply for a job and they'd ask last grade completed. Somtimes I lied and sometimes I left it blank. I can't express how happy I am to receive this diploma. It's an honor I will always treasure. I would like to thank the school district for awarding me this diploma, and thanks to my son , Jim, for pursuing it for me. "____Jim Manuel, 79 years old Graduate of Adult Education Class of 2005