Elkville man, 91, whose high school career was interrupted by WWII receives diploma

Mr. Ernest Fager Jr. attended Glendale School #176 as a youth, which would eventually become part of the current Elverado School District.

In October of 1942 he was drafted into the Army to serve his country during World War II. The 91-year-old veteran was in active service for three years, 26 days. During that time Mr. Fager served two years and five months in the Pacific, specifically the Philippine and Solomon Islands.

As a result of his involvement in the Pacific Theatre, Mr. Fager was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart, according to Supt. Kevin Spain.

Illinois Public Act 96-0088 authorizes a school board to award diplomas to honorably discharged veterans of WWII, Korea, or Vietnam. The Elverado Board of Education feels there is no greater act of selflessness than a person placing them self in harm's way to protect their community or country.

The board saw the significance of Mr. Fager's service and felt it was an honor for the district to recognize his contributions. During Thursday night's meeting the board paused to honor Mr. Fager and his service by awarding him a diploma.