Brentwood's Board of Education and Central Administration recognized a first-of-its-kind graduate at the BOE Business Meeting on Aug. 22 as Kenneth S. O'Brien was conferred with an honorary high school diploma as part of New York State's Operation Recognition program.

Mr. O'Brien was poised to be a member of the graduating class of 1987 from Brentwood High School before enlisting in the United States Army, forgoing his initial graduation ceremony. Following his stint with the Army, he would serve two decades as part of the NYPD and is currently earning college credits to finish his education. O'Brien received the diploma with his daughters in attendance and was also gifted a one-of-a-kind wooden American flag created by a Bronze Star recipient from the Army who happens to be the brother of Assistant Superintendent Mr. Gengler and graduated from West Point before serving a tour with the Fourth Infantry.

Created by Section 305 of New York State's Education Law, Operation Recognition recognizes veterans of the United States Armed Forces who left schooling early to serve in the military with honorary high school diplomas.