[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 8 (Wednesday, January 13, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E42-E43]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 4 (RET.) 
                       HERSHEL ``WOODY'' WILLIAMS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EVAN H. JENKINS

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 13, 2016

  Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Chief Warrant Officer 4 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, CWO4 Williams was 
stationed in the Pacific Theater and bravely fought in the Battle of 
Guam in 1944.
   What truly distinguishes CWO4 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.
   Mr. 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.'' Mr. Williams is the last living 
Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima.

[[Page E43]]

   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 Mr. 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.

                          ____________________