Jack Milton, a 100-year-old veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, recently received a surprise graduation ceremony from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Milton, who had enrolled at the university in the 1960s while working at the Pentagon, had earned enough credits for his bachelor of arts diploma but was deployed to Vietnam before he could officially graduate. The long-overdue ceremony was a touching moment for Milton, who had always been bothered that he never received his diploma.
Milton, who was a military pilot for 31 years and flew combat missions in Vietnam, expressed his gratitude for the ceremony, calling it the “finale of a long journey in education.” Despite missing his original graduation ceremony in 1966, Milton remained involved with the University of Maryland Global Campus community throughout his life. Along with his wife, Symantha Milton, he supported programs for active military and veterans enrolled at the school and established a scholarship fund to support volunteer caregivers of injured military servicemembers.
President Gregory Fowler presented Milton with his diploma and graduation cap, nearly six decades after he had earned his degree. Fowler conferred upon Milton the degree of bachelor of arts, finally granting him the rights and privileges that came with it. This ceremony was a truly memorable occasion for Milton, who had never forgotten his unfulfilled graduation experience from years before.
Milton’s military service, which included being awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, exemplifies his dedication and bravery throughout his 31-year career. Flying over 12,000 hours, Milton was a highly accomplished pilot who served his country with honor. Despite the challenges and sacrifices he faced during his time in the military, Milton remained committed to his education and was proud of the education he received at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
The University of Maryland Global Campus, formerly known as the University of Maryland, University College, has a strong tradition of catering to non-traditional college students, including veterans like Milton. The school offers both in-person and distance learning options, making it accessible to students with diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Milton’s long-awaited graduation ceremony serves as a reminder of the importance of education and the impact it can have on individuals, even decades after their academic journey began.
In addition to his impressive military career and dedication to education, Milton and his wife have also made significant contributions to the University of Maryland Global Campus community through their scholarship fund. The John L. and Symantha Milton Scholarship Fund supports volunteer caregivers of injured military servicemembers, demonstrating the Miltons’ commitment to supporting those who have served and sacrificed for their country. This fund reflects their generosity and desire to give back to the community that has meant so much to them over the years.
