CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams will lie in honor at the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, more than two weeks after the World War II veteran’s death.
Williams died June 29 at the age of 98. He received the Medal of Honor in October 1945 for his efforts during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He spent his final years advocating for families whose loved ones died in military combat.
West Virginia’s congressional delegates had pushed Williams to lie in honor. U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., noted Sunday during a state memorial service that Williams had wanted the last remaining Medal of Honor recipient from World War II to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol.
“That was one of his last wishes,” Manchin said during the event at the state Culture Center in Charleston.
Congressional leaders agreed to honor Williams, allowing people to pay their final respects. Williams’ body will lie in honor from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
Individuals who have lain in the U.S. Capitol over the last year include Alaska Rep. Don Young, Sen. Harry Reid of Nevada and Sen. Bob Dole of Kansas.