The Colton Unified School District Board of Education awarded a Veterans Diploma on July 15 to Gilbert Zamorano, a former Colton High School student who left school in 1941 to join the U.S. Army.
In November 2009, the Colton Joint Unified School District, Board of Education adopted Board Policy 6146.12, Veterans Diploma. This board policy allows the district to grant a high school diploma to any WWII, Vietnam War or Korean War Veteran who left high school prior to completion to enlist in the military.
Gilbert Zamorano served in Patton's 3rd Armored Division. He received a Bronze Star, European Theater of operation with four stars, Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart and a Victory Medal for WWII. He was honorably discharged in 1946. He eventually retired after 30 years of service as a civilian employee at Norton Air Force Base.