More than that, he was a loving family man of profound honor and integrity who devoted much of his life after World War II to supporting American veterans and their families. Woody was the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. The National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation released the following statement Wednesday, “The National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation mourns the passing of Hershel “Woody” Williams, who passed away on June 29, 2022, at the age of ninety-eight. A hero at Iwo Jima, he was an icon to veterans across the nation and became their voice on matters before Congress and in state houses. The loss of Woody Williams is felt not only in West Virginia, but across the nation. One of the best West Virginians we’ve ever known is now gone, but his lifetime of service and incredible legacy will be with us forever.” He inspired many to love their country, enter the service, and reminded everyone why our ‘nation under God’ is the greatest on earth. Not only are his acts of valor on the battlefield well-documented, but the lives he touched in the years since serving had a lasting impact on every person he met. Woody embodied exactly what the Greatest Generation was all about: Service to country above self.

I am so sad to learn that my friend Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, passed away at the age of 98. “West Virginia lost one of its proudest sons today, and the United States lost a true hero. Senator Shelley Moore Capito ( R-W.Va.) released the following statement on the death of West Virginia native, Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient. gTLaw9F4IP- Senator Joe Manchin June 29, 2022 Gayle and I are devastated by the loss of our dear friend who meant so much to so many. Americans like Woody answered the call to serve our great nation and their sacrifices allow us to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear. Woody Williams was the embodiment of a true American hero. With the passing of Woody, their legacies and honor are laid to rest.” As the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient, Woody represented the last of the Greatest Generation. During those moments, Woody showed the world the true nature of being a West Virginian with his humility and grace. One of my most cherished memories with Woody is traveling to California and Virginia with him when his ship was commissioned and christened. I will miss riding with Woody during our annual motorcycle ride for Gold Star Families he was always my wingman. Over the years, my staff and I worked with Woody on too many issues to name, including for Gold Star Families, improving our Veterans hospitals and healthcare, and recognizing the contributions of our servicemembers. “Woody was a tireless advocate for all Veterans and their family members. I am determined to carry on the legacy of my dear friend by getting the shelter built.

Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar – his most recent Veterans project – to ensure that the families of our fallen soldiers and Veterans have a safe place to lay their loved ones to rest, protected from the weather throughout the year. In true Woody fashion, he wanted to discuss the importance of completing the Donel C. We called VA Secretary Denis McDonough so he could thank Woody directly for his unparalleled service to our nation. “Last Sunday, I was honored to visit with Woody one last time.

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