WATCH: 100-Year-Old Veteran Who Served in Three Wars Given Long-Awaited College Diploma

“I thought about it many times that I was unable to attend my ceremony after all that hard work,” he told NBC 4 Washington.

The Vietnam War came to a close in January 1973 when the United States and North Vietnam “concluded a final peace agreement, ending open hostilities between the two nations,” according to History.com.

To Milton’s great delight and surprise, he was recently honored with a long-awaited graduation ceremony during a luncheon at an art gallery on the university’s campus.

During the gathering, UMGC Associate Vice President for Stateside Military Operations Nicole DeRamus said, “Thank you for everything you have done in serving our country, giving back to your alma mater, and so generously supporting those learners who need us most.”

Video footage shows images of Milton throughout his military career while serving as a pilot in the three wars, according to WUSA 9.

“I’ve had many ceremonies throughout my life, fortunately, but this has to be the top,” Milton said.

Ubala had tender words for the man who has meant so much to her loved ones over the years. She said, “He’s like my father. I call him that. And my children call him grandfather.”