Ken Grundborg, an 88-year-old retired Army colonel, finally accepted degrees he earned from Georgia Tech — a bachelor's in 1960 and a master's in civil engineering in 1966 — after missing both ceremonies due to military service. He spent 20 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and served with the 82nd Airborne, the Rangers and the Pathfinders. A decorated veteran who earned the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit and the Ranger Tab, Grundborg received warm applause when a presenter joked he was "60 years late" to his graduation.
88-Year-Old Army Colonel Finally Walks at Georgia Tech Commencement — 60 Years After Earning Degrees
88-year-old Army veteran walks at graduation 60 years after earning degree
Ken Grundborg, an 88-year-old retired U.S. Army colonel, finally walked across the stage at his Georgia Tech commencement more than 60 years after earning his degrees.
Georgia Tech said in a social media post that Grundborg received a bachelor's degree in 1960 and a master's degree in civil engineering in 1966 but was unable to attend either ceremony because his military obligations kept him away.
Grundborg served 20 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and held assignments with the 82nd Airborne Division, the Rangers and the Pathfinders. A highly decorated veteran, he earned the Bronze Star Medal, the Legion of Merit and the Ranger Tab during his military career.
In a video shared by the university, a presenter quipped as Grundborg accepted his diploma:
"You, sir, are 60 years late to your graduation ceremony."The lighthearted remark drew warm applause from the crowd and wide attention online as viewers celebrated the long-delayed recognition of both his academic achievements and his military service.
This moment highlights how institutions sometimes provide opportunities for veterans and alumni who missed earlier ceremonies because of service to receive public recognition for accomplishments earned decades earlier.
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