FORT CAVAZOS, Texas — Lawrence Edmond is a dedicated army soldier who always dreamed of earning his college degree.
However, his unwavering commitment to serving his country had repeatedly postponed this pursuit.
"I’m very excited about graduating today. I’m also looking at it as building a foundation for my kids, which is the most important thing," said Edmond.
With his military uniform exchanged for a cap and gown, Edmond proudly walked across the stage, but despite the challenges and sacrifices he faced never lost sight of his educational goals.
"Between deployments, being stationed in Korea, it was very hard keeping up with my schoolwork,” said Edmond.
Seventy-Four graduates from 16 institutions walked across the stage during Fort Cavazos Education Services’ 26th Annual Graduation Recognition Ceremony. This was for soldiers and their families who were not able to attend their college graduation due to being in the military.
"It’s just magical because you just see the happy faces around,” said Education Officer Sheri Buono.
“You see families who are so happy and so excited for their soldier or family member which makes it all worthwhile."
After years of relentless dedication Kristy France Smith's moment finally arrived when she received her doctorate degree.
"My husband had deployed to Korea, and we maximized on the separation,” said France Smith. “He completed his bachelor’s while he was away, and I started on my doctorate program."
The applause filled the auditorium for those who conquered both the battlefield and the classroom.
reminding us that education is a pursuit worth fighting for.
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