United States Marine Corps veteran Hershel “Woody” Williams died Wednesday at 3:15 a.m. at the Huntington, West Virginia, Veterans Affairs hospital named after him, according to a statement from his foundation. Williams, 98, was the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II.
Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, said in a Wednesday statement that Williams was “the embodiment of a true American hero.”
“Last Sunday, I was honored to visit with Woody one last time,” Manchin said. “We called VA Secretary Denis McDonough so he could thank Woody directly for his unparalleled service to our nation. In true Woody fashion, he wanted to discuss the importance of completing the Donel C. 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.”
Here is the official statement from the Williams Foundation:
June 29, 2022
Huntington, West Virginia
Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center
Today at 3:15am, Hershel Woodrow Williams, affectionately known by many as Woody went home to be with the Lord. Woody peacefully joined his beloved wife Ruby while surrounded by his family at the VA Medical Center which bears his name.
Details about the funeral and memorial services will be shared as that information becomes available.
Woody’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude for all of the love and support. They would also like to share that
Woody’s wish is that people continue to carry on his mission.
All correspondence and condolences may be sent to the Woody Williams Foundation via email at contact@woodywilliams.org or via mail at:
