WESTERN RESERVE SCHOOLS Board awards diploma to WWII vet

The graduate went to Berlin Center School, which at that time housed grades one-12, and was drafted in 1945 into the Army.
By JoANN JONES
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
BERLIN CENTER -- In May 1945 David S. Bencze, along with thousands of young Americans, was serving his country in World War II.
Unable to receive a high school diploma at the end of his senior year because of his service, Bencze, 75, of Ravenna, had to wait 57 years to get it. The Western Reserve Local Board of Education presented it to him at its meeting Thursday.
As Bencze, of Berlin Center, stood awaiting his diploma, Western Reserve students and board members honored him. High school student Jessica Speece sang "God Bless the USA," and another student, Corey Sinn, read an original poem titled "Tribute to American Soldiers."
Board president Robert Hermiller then presented him with his diploma as he received a standing ovation.
Bencze went to Berlin Center School, which at that time housed grades one-12, and was drafted in 1945 into the Army. He spent 22 months in Europe.
Bencze retired 15 years ago from self-employment as a home maintenance service technician. Before that he worked in Bedford Heights as a foreman at Lamson and Sessions, a bolt factory.
He contacted Veterans Services in Ravenna about getting his diploma, which in turn contacted the high school, and principal Jeff Zatchok handled the arrangements from there.
Recognized for service
Ruth and Richard Blevins of Berlin Center also were recognized by the board. They received the district's Red Apple Award -- a local award designed to honor district residents who support the children in the schools -- for their continued support of the music booster program.
They have a son who's a junior and two other children who have graduated. They are involved in many community activities but are special supporters of the band. She runs the band's annual fruit sale, and they both work on the golf outing. Blevins is a truant officer for Mahoning County.
Board members voted to buy a 2003 Chevrolet truck from Stratton Chevrolet of North Benton for $21,300.
Superintendent Charles Swindler also announced there will be a public meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday at the high school to discuss the district's financial situation through 2006.