CLAY COUNTY, W.Va. — 99-year-old veteran Charles “Birdy” Edward Bird is now a member of the 2024 graduating class at Clay County High School.
Bird received his high school diploma from Clay County Schools Superintendent Phil Dobbins and Clay County Board of Education President Phoebe Nichols during an assembly at the school Friday morning. Students and stuff of the school and other military veterans were in attendance for the ceremony too.
Thanks to the Operation Recognition Program (ORP), a collective effort from the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE) and the West Virginia Veterans’ Council, veterans have the opportunity to obtain their high school diploma because of their honorable service in World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam Conflict.
Bird was drafted to the U.S. Army in 1943 to serve in WWII at the age of 18.
“The service of our veterans deserves the utmost respect and consideration,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “We are grateful for Mr. Bird’s service and sacrifice and for the vision of the West Virginia Board of Education in making this program possible.”
“It was an honor to be recognized at Clay County High School,” Bird said. “Being the oldest member of the graduating class of 2024 is special.”
Bird is one of four remaining WWII veterans in Clay County. He’s hoping he’ll be around to join his great-granddaughter when she graduates from Clay County High School on May 18.
“It means even more to graduate high school with my great-granddaughter,” he said. “I’m thankful that Clay County Schools recognizes veterans for their military service, but I’m especially thankful that the school system took time to recognize me.”