Voorheesville Central School District recently awarded a posthumous diploma to Charles H. Peck Jr., in recognition of his dedication to family and country.

Peck attended Voorheesville schools from 1930 to 1940 but left at age 15 after two tragedies. First, his mother and the twins she was carrying were killed in a car accident. Shortly later, his father was injured while attempting to rescue cows from a barn fire. Peck left school to support his family.

He later enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an Armed Guard on merchant ships during World War II. He survived the sinking of the USS Houghton in the English Channel and continued to serve, earning multiple medals for his bravery.

This year, the district proudly awarded Charles Peck a posthumous diploma in recognition of his legacy of sacrifice, service and resilience. His daughter, Betty Filkins, accepted the diploma during a special school ceremony.