John Han had already completed all of his necessary credits and was just two months shy of graduation from Maui High School in 1945, but like so many American men of his generation, he wanted to serve his country in a time of war.

Han had tried to enlist a year earlier when he was 17, but was rejected.

And so, even though school administrators told him in no uncertain terms that he'd have to complete the school year to get his diploma, Han left school as soon as he turned 18 to begin his career in the Army.

Yesterday, Han, 82, was awarded an honorary diploma from his alma mater as part of the state Department of Education's Kupono Diploma Program.

Also yesterday, retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Nicholas Revuelto Jr., a veteran of the Korean War, received an honorary diploma at Roosevelt High School's commencement ceremony.

In all, the DOE will award honorary diplomas to 20 war veterans representing 16 schools statewide this year.

Han, whose father immigrated from Korea to Hawai'i in 1903 and later wed via picture-bride arrangement, initially received training as an infantryman before being selected to serve as an interpreter.

After a brief stint in Japan — where he witnessed Gen. Douglas MacArthur signing the Instrument of Surrender with Japan — Han served for two years in Korea.

Han would later spend 18 years in the Army Reserve and National Guard. He would also enjoy a long career with the former Hawaiian Tel.

Han's military service also established a tradition within his family. His son served in the Korean War and his grandson served in Iraq.

Han said yesterday's long-deferred ceremony put to rest a nagging concern.

"I used to think about (not having a diploma) when I applied for jobs," he said, chuckling. "Now, I don't have to think about it — even though I'm not applying for anything."