YORKVILLE - The sun shone brightly Sunday on World War II Memorial Stadium as the Buckeye Local High School Class of 2012 was set to graduate.
High school executive committee member Bethany Tintsman offered welcoming remarks to the audience and fellow classmates.
"Four years ago, we entered high school immature and counted the days until we were seniors and would be running the show. Now lately, we've been counting the days until we can get out and start our lives," said Tintsman. "The 732 days spent between those walls will be the ones we miss most as we face the hardships of our future. Together, we've faced a lot through the years.
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Jeremy Kins
SPEAKER — Buckeye Local School District Superintendent Mark Miller on Sunday addressed graduating seniors at World War II Memorial Stadium in Yorkville. Miller presented Steven Arthur Winland, a member of the Class of 1968 who left before graduation to serve in Vietnam, with an honorary diploma. Miller’s message to students was to “set goals and work toward achieving them.”
"As time passes and friendships fade, this will have been our time. Friends and family, thank you for being there for us, and to our teachers, thanks for preparing us for our futures the best you could," said Tintsman.
Superintendent Mark Miller then took the stage for the presentation of a special diploma.
"During the history of our school, many have left to serve America in the military. Most do so after graduation, but some do leave early to serve. Today, we're honoring a man that put his life on hold to fight in Vietnam," said Mark Miller.
Steven Arthur Winland was invited to the stage to receive his honorary diploma. Winland would have graduated in 1968.
"Congratulations to the Class of 2012. Today, you will make history. Today, you become the 22nd class to graduate from Buckeye Local High School. Your hard work, perseverance and attention to detail have been rewarded. Today is your day and everyone is here to honor your accomplishment," said Miller.
"You leave today with hopes and dreams for the future. Each of you will set goals and works toward a path of achieving them," said Miller.
