CLARION — Butler native Maj. Gen. Peter Talleri, USMC, retired, was the guest speaker at Clarion University’s winter commencement on Saturday.

Talleri, a 1975 graduate of Butler High School and 1979 graduate of Clarion University, delivered remarks to 441 graduates, including 145 who earned master’s degrees, and 296 who completed bachelor’s degrees.

He is the son of Peter Talleri and Theresa Schaffer of Butler.

Talleri had a 34-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps and was recipient of Clarion University Alumni Association’s 2008 Distinguished Achievement Award.

He encouraged the graduates to be grateful to join the one percent of the world’s population who is fortunate enough to attend college, and to be grateful for the people and experiences at Clarion.