92-year-old Kauai man fulfills last bucket list wish: graduate high school

HONOLULU (KHON2) — A 92-year-old Kauai man checked off the last box on his bucket list — graduate high school.

Kauai High School’s class of 2024 not only celebrated their accomplishments during the annual commencement but also the accomplishments of Korean war veteran Stanley Oshima.

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On Friday, May 24, Oshima received an honorary diploma from KHS’s principal, Marlene Leary.

“Today, the Kauai Complex and Kauai High School is proud to bestow on Mr. Stanly Oshima an honorary Kauai High School diploma,” said Leary. “Recognizing his not only extraordinary life story but also his profound contributions and enduring legacy.”


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In 1948, Oshima dropped out of high school as a sophomore to work and support his family of six brothers and two parents.

Just two years later, he joined the army to fight in the Korean War.

During his years of service in the Army, Oshima earned several medals including the prestigious “Croix de Guerre with Silver Star” medal for bravery in compact from the country of France and the Purple Heart.

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After his military service, Oshima gave his service benefits to his brother to allow him to go to college.

Congratulations, Stanley Oshima!