Sacrifice is often rewarded, although in some instances it takes time.
Such was the case for James Ronnie Keel Sr., who last Wednesday evening was presented his high school diploma. The local veteran and Martin County resident was honored and received congressional recognition from U.S. Congressman Don Davis.
Davis’ District Director Kim Mack, a regular figure at Martin County events, introduced associates from a variety of government departments who worked on arranging the issuing of Keel’s diploma.
“It’s always great to be in Martin County and I thank you for the privilege of allowing us to come forward to present a special presentation,” Mack said. “We have worked with the State Department and federal partners in a joint collaboration for the presentation this evening. The collaborators included Martin County Veterans Service Office, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the North Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs.”
Steps towards receiving the diploma began in November 2022 when Keel contacted Martin County Veterans Service Officer Thurman Savage inquiring on how to obtain a high school diploma.
“Mr. Keel came to my office inquiring. They hadn’t heard about the program that helped him obtain his high school diploma back in November of 2022. I was able to assist him in finding the right connections for Operation Recognition through the program of the Federal Administration. The Operation Recognition program has assisted thousands in obtaining their high school diplomas,” said Savage.
A connection was made with Military Affairs Outreach Director Chief Robert Kruger, who moved the initiative forward.
“It is my distinct honor and privilege to be here today to recognize and congratulate Mr. James Keel, whose service and dedication have left a lasting impact on this community and our nation,” Kruger said. “Mr. Keel’s leadership and commitment to his fellow veterans are unparalleled and evident.
“As Mr. Keel pointedly said in one of our meetings, ‘the reason I didn’t graduate high school was because of Vietnam. I figured 5,000 people were going to die. I wasn’t going to be staying home,’ so he enlisted in the U.S. Navy,” Kruger added.
Keel has an extensive military service portfolio. He has been the commander of AMVETS Post 227 in Williamson since 2023. He previously served as first vice commander.
Keel is also an active member of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 48 in Guilford County and the American Legion Post 131 in Hamilton.
State Level Military Consultant Office of Innovation NCDPI Howard Lattimore made the official presentation to Keel.
“On behalf of State Superintendent of Public Information Catherine Truitt and North Carolina Board of Education Chair Eric Davis, I make this special presentation,” Lattimore said. “By the authority vested in me by the state of North Carolina and the Department of Public Instruction, I hereby confer upon you this high school diploma with all rights and privileges.
“Let us all take a moment to reflect on Mr. Keele’s sacrifice and unwavering commitment throughout his life. He is not just a leader, but a beacon of what it means to serve with honor, integrity, and dedication,” said Lattimore.
Keel is the first recipient in Martin County to receive his diploma from this program.
“James ‘Ronnie’ Keel Sr., a Martin County military veteran who didn’t graduate from high school to serve his country in Vietnam, earned his high school diploma today, nearly 50 years later, through Operation Recognition. His remarkable achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of local, state and federal agencies. It was indeed a proud moment for Ronnie and his family,” said Congressman Davis.
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