When the Class of 2022 celebrated their graduation at Springdale School District, they were in for a surprise. The ceremony not only honored the current graduates but also paid tribute to four extraordinary veterans who would have graduated back in 1956 if they hadn’t chosen to serve in the military. These veterans, Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self, were affectionately called the “super seniors” and were awarded honorary diplomas alongside the graduating seniors.

Back in 1956, these four young men were high school seniors, but none of them received a diploma from Springdale High School. Carl Self shared, “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.” It was only recently that the school district became aware of their missing diplomas, coincidentally when they all met up for lunch one day.

The inclusion of these “super seniors” as part of the graduation ceremony came as a delightful surprise for the Class of 2022. It not only celebrated their achievement but also taught them a valuable lesson in honor and sacrifice. During the ceremony, Springdale Superintendent Jared Cleveland read heartfelt letters from Governor Asa Hutchinson and U.S. Representative Steve Womack, praising the veterans for their selflessness and bravery.

Womack wrote, “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 took a moment to highlight each veteran’s exceptional achievements since joining the Air Force in 1956.

Finally, after 66 years, these four remarkable men received their long-awaited diplomas from their alma mater. It was a well-deserved recognition of their contributions. As they say, “Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!”

Congratulations to Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self on their honorary diplomas! Their dedicated service to our country is truly commendable. It is because of brave individuals like them that we have the privilege of living in the great country we do today. Let’s show our appreciation by sharing this story and congratulating these men on their remarkable accomplishments and sacrifices.