CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., are part of a group of senators asking President Donald Trump to award a West Virginia native the Medal of Freedom.
The senators, alongside Republicans Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, wrote a letter Wednesday detailing their support for awarding Hershel “Woody” Williams the honor recognizing his advocacy on behalf of Gold Star families.
The Medal of Freedom is the country’s highest civilian honor.
Williams, a Harrison County native, is one of the last two living Medal of Honor recipients from World War II. He took part in the Battle of Iwo Jima, in which his efforts earned him the Medal of Honor.
Williams, through his foundation, has pushed for monuments recognizing families whose loved ones have died while serving. Sixty such monuments currently exist with plans for more than 70 additional memorials in place.
“These achievements and many more illustrate a legacy that warrants recognition at the highest level. We sincerely appreciate your consideration of Woody Williams’ legacy,” the senators said.
The state Capitol grounds will be the location of a future Gold Star Families Monument. The project’s completion has been delayed because of difficulties securing materials and the coronavirus pandemic.