[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E35]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT CORPORAL HERSHEL ``WOODY'' WILLIAMS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EVAN H. JENKINS

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 12, 2016

  Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Corporal Hershel ``Woody'' Williams, a lifelong West Virginian. When 
the freedom of the United States and the world was in peril during the 
Second World War, he gallantly heard the call to defend our nation and 
enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1943. After finishing his 
training in California, Cpl. Williams was stationed in the Pacific 
Theater and bravely fought in the Battle of Guam in 1944.
   What truly distinguishes Cpl. Williams is the exceptional bravery he 
demonstrated during the battle of Iwo Jima. When tanks became 
ineffective on the beaches, he fought his way to destroy seven Japanese 
pillboxes while covered only by four riflemen. His bravery in taking 
out the pillboxes in the battle of Iwo Jima was a determining factor in 
turning the tide of the battle in favor of the Americans.
   Cpl. Hershel ``Woody'' Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor by 
President Truman in 1945. The Medal of Honor was ``For conspicuous 
gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the 
call of duty as demolition sergeant serving with the 21st Marines, 3d 
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, 
Volcano Islands, 23 February 1945.'' Cpl. Williams is the last living 
Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima.
   Known by all as Woody, he had a distinguished career in the military 
and has spent his life tirelessly helping veterans and their families. 
His service to America and West Virginia is unparalleled. I have known 
Woody for decades and am proud to call him not only a constituent but a 
friend. On January 14, 2016, Woody Williams receives another honor: a 
ship in the United States Navy will bear his name. I congratulate and 
commend Cpl. Williams on a remarkable and admirable life. Woody 
Williams serves as a pillar for all Americans to aspire to, a brave man 
who put his fellow Americans before himself.

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