During Springdale School District’s Class of 2022 celebration, four “super seniors” from 1956 were recognized alongside the current graduates. Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self were awarded honorary diplomas. Self explained, “I took a GED test when I went into the Air Force… Springdale didn’t recognize the GED test.” The oversight was discovered during a casual lunch encounter.
The surprise inclusion carried a poignant message. Superintendent Jared Cleveland read letters from Gov. Asa Hutchinson and U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, highlighting the veterans’ selflessness during the Korean conflict. Womack noted, “They answered the call of duty. Is that not the truest spirit of America?” Educators detailed each veteran’s achievements since their military service, emphasizing their enduring contributions.