Overview

Veterans who left high school without graduating are eligible to earn New York State high school diplomas. Operation Recognition, created by Section 305 of New York’s Education Law, recognizes the devotion and sacrifice of all Veterans who left school early by presenting them with a high school diploma.

Eligibility

To be eligible, a Veteran must meet the following requirements:

  1. Be a New York State resident
  2. Engaged in active duty service for at least one day
  3. Discharged under honorable conditions

Deceased Veterans can receive a diploma. The child or spouse of a deceased Veteran who met the criteria listed above may apply and accept a posthumous diploma on the Veteran’s behalf.

Qualifying Veterans or their family members must present evidence of the Veteran’s military service, including dates of service and discharge status. Acceptable verifying documents include a DD Form 214 (the Department of Defense discharge form), a WD AGO Form 53-55 form (Enlisted Record and Report of Separation), an Honorable Discharge Certificate, or a Special Discharge form from the Coast Guard or Merchant Marines.    

Apply

Veterans and family members can obtain Operation Recognition information by contacting the New York State Department of Education at (518) 474-8940.

Contact Assistance

If you need assistance, or just want to learn more about the benefits and services you may be eligible for, schedule an appointment with one of our Veterans Benefits Advisors, all Veterans themselves.

  • Call 1-888-838-7697 to speak to an advisor.
  • Schedule a phone or video consultation online.
  • Use our search to find a Services Office near you.