REMEMBERING WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT Herschel “Woody” Williams with Congresswoman Carol Miller

Williams, the last WWII Medal of Honor recipient, was laid to rest in the Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, July 14.

Herschel "Woody" Williams was just 21 years old when he single handedly operated six flamethrowers against advancing Japanese forces for several hours. His bravery ultimately cleared a path for American troops to advance on Feb. 23, 1945– the day the Marines raised our American flag atop Mount Suribachi.

The U.S. Marine Corps veteran, who died last month at 98 as the last living WWII Medal of Honor recipient, he was laid to rest Thursday (July 14, 2022) in the U.S. Capitol. There, lawmakers saluted him with a tribute ceremony to honor the "greatest generation" American hero. One of those lawmakers was Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) and we are honored to have her on the Code Red Podcast to say a few words about her dear friend Woody.

"Woody Williams will lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday. I can think of no better way to honor Woody’s life and legacy, as well as the memory of all World War II veterans, than allowing him this privilege."

Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

President Harry Truman awarded Williams with the Medal of Honor in 1945 for his "extraordinary heroism" during the Battle of Iwo Jima. However, his fight for America did not stop when he returned to civilian life.

Williams founded the Woody Williams Foundation, a nonprofit started to serve Gold Star families and served as a Veterans Service Representative for the Department of Veterans Affairs, helping veterans and their families for more than 33 years.

Williams is survived by his twin daughters, Travie and Tracie Ross, and five grandsons. It was Williams' desire that the American people would continue his mission of connecting with future generations of service members.

Listen as Rep. Carol Miller honors his legacy.