The U.S. Navy announced on Tuesday that it would name a ship after Hershel "Woody" Williams, a Medal of Honor recipient.
Williams was born in born in Marion County West Virginia. He joined the U.S. Marine Corpson May 26, 1943, and was a part of the 3rd Marine Division. His bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima, won him the Medal of Honor in 1945, as well as a Purple Heart.
"I am thrilled the U.S. Navy will name a Navy ship after World War II Medal of Honor recipient and my dear friend, Woody Williams. Naming a ship after Woody is a lifelong tribute to Woody's brave actions and his dedication to public service. Woody embodies the service and sacrifice our great state has given to our nation and this honors not only his legacy but the legacy of West Virginia veterans and their families," said Senator Joe Manchin, who had written a letter to U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus recommending that a Navy ship be named after Williams for his outstanding sacrifice and dedication to the nation, reports Marine Link.
"I am glad Secretary Mabus accepted my recommendation and will bestow this great honor on our resident hero, Woody Williams. I also would like to thank Woody's fellow Marines and friends who started this effort so many years ago, and I applaud them for their tireless advocacy," Manchin added.
"I am extremely humbled that Secretary Mabus and my country would think me worthy to have a ship with my name on it," said 92-year-old Williams, according to Metro News. The Navy's decision comes after decades of lobbying by friends, family and well-wishers of Williams.
Williams said that the ship to be named after him would be an expeditionary sea base. He also said that U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus had called him with the news, reports Military.com. Williams in the fourth person to have a ship named after him.
