80-year-old Vietnam War Veteran earns college degree after 60 years

ROME, Ga. (NBC, KYMA) - An 80-year-old Vietnam War Veteran has earned a college degree after six decades.

Charlie Whaley is the kind of history lesson you cannot find in a textbook.

"An 18-year-old kid who is studying U.S. history from 50-60 years ago, they're considering way ancient history...and my father was there," said Chuck Whaley, Whaley's son.

At 80-years-old, his classmates were just as fascinated by his life story as he was by learning alongside them.

"They said, 'Well, you're older than my grandfather! And I said, 'Hey well, your grandfather can learn just like me,'" Whaley shared.

His return to school came more than 60 years after he last sat in a classroom.

"When I was in school, the word computer was not even in existence," Whaley remarked.

Still, assignment by assignment and class by class, Whaley built a future he once thought had passed him by.

"I have maintained a 3.55 and above! Yeah, I am proud of that," Whaley declared.

When they finally called his name, decades of the hard work and sacrifice and perseverance all came down to one moment.

Walking across the stage was not just about earning a degree. For Whaley, it was about showing his grandson what perseverance looks like.

"Do your best, and we will be proud of you, son," Whaley expressed.