Fox Cities News

On Monday, July 14, 2025, Bernie Faust received his high school diploma at the age of 93. The ceremony took place with family and friends present.

The event was marked by a presentation from Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent Bryan Davis, Board of Education President Beth Wyman, and Assistant Superintendent of Operations Julie Conrad-Peters. They awarded Mr. Faust an Honorary Diploma.

Faust had enlisted in the United States Navy at 17 to serve in the Korean War, which prevented him from graduating high school as a teenager. Despite the passage of time, he always hoped to receive his diploma.

"As we recognize Bernie Faust, we recognize someone who served his country - not only at the international level but also at the local level - and has been a great family man and community steward throughout the years," said Superintendent Davis during the presentation.

Faust's life has been characterized by service. He worked for 30 years at Rockwell International in Oshkosh and volunteered for 44 years at EAA Aviation Museum.

The diploma was granted under a Wisconsin program that allows local school boards to award diplomas to veterans who left school for military service during designated war periods. On June 27, 2025, the Board of Education approved waiving Policy 9800 to grant Faust this honor.

Mike Hert from Wisconsin Disabled Veterans assisted Faust in applying for the honorary diploma. Thanks were extended to Hert for his support during this process.

Faust wore a green and gold cap and gown but received a diploma from Oshkosh West High School since he would have graduated from Oshkosh High School before it split in 1972.

“I’m so happy to be here and that God gave me the life to live to be 93. What a spectacular moment,” said Faust with a smile. “To receive this recognition from the community for the years I put into the Navy - it’s overwhelming. I’m lost for words.”

A small banquet followed where family and friends celebrated Faust's achievement. His smile remained as he held his diploma.

The District expressed gratitude for Faust’s service and commitment to achieving this milestone. At age 93, he exemplifies perseverance toward one's goals.