HALSTEAD, Kan. (KSNW) — It was a moment unlike anything Halstead High School has ever experienced. Wilbur R. Nachtigal, 95, received his diploma Saturday afternoon after a 78-year delay.
“It’s a big honor for anybody, but especially me,” said the Halstead native, who would have been a member of Halstead’s 1946 graduating class. Instead, he made the decision to leave high school at age 17 to serve in World War II.
The veteran was a payroll clerk in the U.S. Marine Corps, holding the rank of Private First-Class. For his sacrifice, Halstead High School gladly awarded him his long-awaited diploma.
“This is really something special. I didn’t expect this much. And I’m very proud they gave that much to me,” said Wilbur R. Nachtigal.
