Johnson Encourages Presidential Medal of Freedom for Hershel "Woody" Williams

Press Release

Congressman Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement regarding his continuing efforts to have the Presidential Medal of Freedom bestowed upon Hershel "Woody" Williams, USMC (Ret.):

"I am proud to lead this letter encouraging President Biden to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Woody Williams," Bill Johnson said. "Mr. Williams served the United States in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II, and he was awarded our nation's highest honor for military service -- the Medal of Honor. And, he has never stopped serving. Today, Woody is a tireless advocate for Gold Star Families and veterans across the country, and I strongly believe Mr. Williams is deserving of our highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom."

Mr. Williams established the Hershel "Woody" Williams MOH Foundation's Gold Star Families Memorial Monument movement. To date, 85 monuments have been erected honoring Gold Star Families, helping to bring them peace and raising public awareness about the ultimate sacrifice made by their loved ones. 75 more memorials are currently in progress.
Johnson added, "Now 97 years old, Mr. Williams continues to advocate for veterans by speaking with both children and adults. Additionally, he has advocated for countless pieces of legislation to assist veterans and their families to help heal the wounds of war. His 75-plus years of service and dedication to the legacy of American heroes since returning from the Pacific Theater in World War II is deserving of this prestigious honor."

The letter was also signed by the overwhelming majority of Ohio's current congressional delegation: Senator Rob Portman, Senator Sherrod Brown, Rep. Marcy Kaptur, Rep. Anthony Gonzalez, Rep. Troy Balderson, Rep. Mike Turner, Rep. Steve Chabot, Rep. Bob Gibbs, Rep. Bob Latta, Rep. Dave Joyce, Rep. Jim Jordan, Rep. Tim Ryan, Rep. Warren Davidson, and Rep. Brad Wenstrup.

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