Senate passes bill that would award diplomas to vets

JUNEAU (AP) -- The state Senate unanimously approved a bill Wednesday that would let the state award diplomas to World War II veterans who didn't finish high school.

In introducing the bill earlier this year, Gov. Tony Knowles said it honors World War II veterans who left school early to fight in the war. Some never finished high school because they immediately started work and families when they returned from the war.

The bill would let the state Department of Education and Early Development award diplomas to honorably discharged veterans who served between Aug, 7, 1940, and July 5, 1947.

Sen. Pete Kelly, R-Fairbanks, said estimates are fewer than 150 people would be eligible. The bill now goes to the House.