Carlo Joseph Bruno, 93, was on track to graduate from Clayton High School in 1946 when he chose, instead, to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army Air Corps in April 1944, less than two months before the D-Day invasion at Normandy during World War II. Seventy-three years after he would have graduated from CHS, Bruno received his diploma alongside the Class of 2019 during the commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 30, at Chaifetz Arena.

“It’s a true honor to have the opportunity to finally award Mr. Bruno his diploma, especially on the heels of a weekend where we took time to remember his fallen brothers in arms,” said Clayton High School Principal Dr. Dan Gutchewsky. “The Clayton High School community thanks him for his service and hopes this day is as special for him as it will be for the younger members of the Class of 2019.”

As a Corporal in the Army Air Corps, Bruno trained as a Radar Mechanic, Bombardment, where he tested, cleaned, adjusted, installed, repaired and operated radio and radar airborne equipment. For his service, he earned the American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Bruno received an honorable discharge from the Army Air Corps in May 1946.

Bruno had a natural curiosity for how things work, and, while in the School District of Clayton, enrolled in classes in radar, radio mechanics, electronics, mechanical drawing and general shop. Even though Bruno didn’t finish out his junior and senior years at Clayton High School, it was important to him to continue his education. He went on to complete certificates and receive a Bachelor of Science Degree from Washington University, an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from Meramec Community College and a Master of Arts Degree from Webster College.

“I dedicated my life to learning. It takes a lifetime of situations and experiences to be prepared for whatever comes along,” said Mr. Bruno. “I want to emphasize to these young men and women that you can never stop learning.”