With the help of State Senator Pam Helming, a Farmington Vietnam Veteran finally has the one thing he wanted – a high school diploma.
Rudolph “Rudy” van der Velden was born in the Netherlands but came to the US in 1960. In 1967, he was drafted into the army to fight in the war.
van der Velden’s wife, Diana, contacted Senator Helming’s office to seek assistance in getting Rudy his high school diploma.
Senator Helming was able to help him receive a diploma from Victor Central School through the state’s Operation Recognition Program which helps eligible vets earn their diploma. She thanks Maureen Goodberlet from Victor Central School District and Town of Farmington Supervisor Peter Ingalsbe, for their quick response and expediting the needed documentation.
Mr Van der Velden was recognized last fall by the state senator as one of her nominees for the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame.
He turns 79 next Tuesday.
