Dominic Bersani didn’t just celebrate his 99th birthday on November 20 — he celebrated a moment nearly a lifetime in the making.
At an emotional ceremony filled with applause, gratitude, and military pride, the World War II Navy Seabee veteran from East Greenbush, New York, was honored with an official high school diploma and a collection of long-overdue military medals. For a man who once left school behind to fight for freedom, it was a tribute as powerful as his service.
Held by the Rev. Francis A. Kelley Military Honor Society and the Lois Wilson Memorial Breakfast Club at the Melvin Roads American Legion Post, the event brought together veterans, community leaders, and supporters who wanted to give Bersani the recognition he earned decades ago.
He served during the war as a fireman first class — and on his 99th birthday, his community made sure he knew just how much his courage still matters.
A Diploma Earned Through Sacrifice
Bersani received his honorary diploma through the Operation Recognition Program, designed to award high school diplomas to veterans who left their education behind to join the fight. Now proudly recognized as a graduate of Columbia High School’s Class of 2025, he joins fellow veteran Abram Seeberger, 88, who received the honor earlier this year.
The room fell silent as military historian Tom Mullins — and several distinguished veterans — presided over the ceremony, recounting Bersani’s service and lifelong dedication.
New York State Sen. Jacob Ashby, himself a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, presented Bersani with the Asiatic-Pacific Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the American Campaign Medal, along with an official proclamation acknowledging his sacrifice.
Retired Marine Sgt. Ken Wells added even more honors — the Navy Good Conduct Medal, the Cold War Commemorative Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal — recognizing both Bersani’s valor and his decades of continued service.
The Boy Who Walked Out of School to Defend a Nation
Bersani’s journey didn’t begin with accolades — it began with a young boy in Maine who walked out of school in eighth grade, frustrated by French lessons and ready to work in a shoe factory.
But when the world went to war, Bersani didn’t hesitate.
“The day I turned 17, I joined the Navy,” he recalled.
At the time, Japanese forces were closing in on American soil through the Aleutian Islands. As part of the Seabees — the Navy’s legendary construction battalions — Bersani was sent to Adak Island. His mission: help build the bases, ports, and fortifications that would push back the enemy and protect the Pacific.
The Seabees’ motto, “Can Do!”, was the essence of Bersani’s war years. They built, they defended, and when necessary, they fought alongside infantry — a crucial force throughout WWII.
Called to Serve — Again and Again
After the war, Bersani returned to Maine, picking up his civilian job at the shoe factory. But service still called his name.
He reenlisted in 1949, rising to ship serviceman third class and helping repair and ship landing craft during the Korean War. With Cold War tensions escalating, he served on missions in Cuba and the Caribbean before receiving another honorable discharge.
Whether on the front lines of WWII or supporting operations during the Cold War, Bersani showed up — every time his country needed him.
A Life of Hard Work, Humility, and Lasting Service
After retiring from the Navy, Bersani worked as a bridge builder for Cinbro Construction in Maine, later settling in East Greenbush. Even in his 90s, he remained active in local veterans groups, continuing his lifetime of service long after the uniform was folded away.
And now, at 99 years old, surrounded by those who admire him, he finally received the diploma he sacrificed for the nation seven decades ago.
A fitting honor — for a life defined by honor.
