Lawrenceburg WWII veteran receives high school diploma

Watch here:

Lawrenceburg native George Klopp was a senior at Lawrenceburg High School in 1943. 

The 18-year-old had just one month until he graduated but decided to quit school. 

That’s because he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Klopp would go on to serve in the South Pacific for 22 months before returning home to Dearborn County. 

Lawrenceburg Community Schools recently became aware of the fact that Klopp had never received a high school diploma. 

On Saturday, Superintendent Karl Galey, Principal Jared Leiker and school board members held a presentation during the City of Lawrenceburg’s America 250 Celebration. 

“It is important for us to correct something that is long overdue. While George left school to serve a greater cause, he never received a high school diploma,” Galey told the crowd. 

Klopp, now 100-years-old, was presented with an honorary diploma more than 80 years after he attended the school.

Galey added, “George, your life has been an example for generations. Lawrenceburg is proud to call you one of our own, congratulations to your service.” 

Following the presentation, Lawrenceburg Mayor Kelley Mollaun presented Klopp with the Key to the City.

“George has been a great example of what honor and integrity is all about in many people’s lives,” Mayor Mollaun said.

The mayor added, “Not only did he recently turn 100, he is truly a friend to all in Southeast Indiana.”

Klopp has also been a member of the Lawrenceburg American Legion Post 239 Color Guard and the Southeastern Indiana Honor Guard for over 70 years.

Watch the Key to the City presentation here: