CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s congressional delegation is asking President Donald Trump to designate a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient when that person dies.
U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., as well as Reps. David McKinley, R-W.Va., Alex Mooney, R-W.Va., and Carol Miller, R-W.Va., signed onto a letter dated Friday.
Charles H. Coolidge and Hershel “Woody” Williams, a West Virginia native, are the last two recipients alive; both men served in World War II.
“These brave individuals embody the sacrifice of the World War II era. Their stories of service during and after the military have inspired future generations to serve our Country,” the lawmakers said. “This may be our last chance to show our respect and gratitude to the Greatest Generation with our nation’s highest honor.”
The letter comes after the death of Medal of Honor recipient Francis S. Currey in October.
Williams, 96, travels across the country advocating for Gold Star family monuments. He will be one of five grand marshals of Monday’s New York City Veterans Day Parade.