"We're saying thank you for the sacrifices they made so that all of us could live in a better world," Santos said.
The state of Georgia recently issued special diplomas for those who left school to join the armed forces.
Saturday's event was hosted by the Gainesville post of the American Legion.
"I'm not saying it's about time but I definitely think it should have been done a lot sooner," Santos said. "I congratulate the state of Georgia for recognizing these people. A lot of other states have also done this so we're very happy to see this trend."
Santos said some of the sacrifices could not be truly measured.
"Some of the young men never came back and we'll never know the real impact on their families. And some who did never finished and sacrificed being able to make a better living for their family," Santos said.
State Senator Carol Jackson of Cleveland hosted the ceremony.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2002/1/199625