U.S. President George W. Bush saluted a graduating high school class and its small town on Sunday, one year after a killer tornado ripped apart its homes, churches and businesses, Reuters reports.

“We celebrate the resurgence of a town that stood tall when its buildings and homes were laid low,” Bush said in commencement address to Greensburg High School's 18-member graduating class, quoted by the same source. “We celebrate the power of faith, the love of family, and the bonds of friendship that guided you through the disaster,” declared Bush, marking the first anniversary of the twister that left 11 dead and dozens of people wounded.

Residents, who held signs reading “thank you”, greeted President Bush as a returning hero. Five days after the tornado struck on May 4, 2007, Bush visited the farm town in Middle America. He hugged and comforted residents and ordered federal aid rushed in.

The killer tornado managed to destroy or severely damage an estimated 95% of Greensburg, including more than 900 homes, businesses, schools, a hospital, and a power plant. However, with approximately $20 million in federal aid, plus state assistance, the Kansas town has been busy building and upgrading homes and businesses with energy-efficient material.

The high school reopened a few months after the disaster. Bush, who stayed for the entire graduation ceremony, applauded local officials for their green approach. “This community is dedicated to putting the ‘green’ in Greensburg,” he said. “As you work to achieve this vision, the federal government will honor its commitment and stand by you,” he said, quoted by CNN.

President Bush personally handed a diploma to each graduate.