On September 16th, 2017, State Funeral for World War II Veterans had the privilege of interviewing Medal of Honor holder Woody Williams, Corporal U.S. Marine Corps. Williams is the grandfather of our Kentucky Chairman, Brent Casey, and Ohio Chairman, Bryan Casey. His heroic Medal of Honor action took place on Iwo Jima the day Marines raised the flag on Mount Suribachi. Woody Williams commandeered a flamethrower to take out many Japanese pillboxes to clear a path for American tanks.
Q: We are organizing in all 50 states to petition President Trump to designate a state funeral for the last of you four Medal of Honor heroes from World War II. What do you think of our effort, Sir?
A: I read the information and I totally agree with you…100%. The idea of a state funeral for the last of us to go is great. The nation needs this. It brings recognition to all 16 million of us who wore the uniform. A state funeral is part of our nation's history that can never be erased.
Q: What do you think about the fact that many Generals have had state funerals, but never a state funeral for an enlisted soldier?
A: That is a great point. This goes back to history. This tradition of state funerals for Generals has never been broken, but is should be. The Generals do the planning and give direction, but the grunts on the ground do the hard work.
Q: What were your initial thoughts when you learned about State Funeral for World War II Veterans and our mission?
A: It is a new idea. It is original. The thing that impressed me was the recognition to all 16 million of us who served in uniform in World War II.
Q: What do you like best about our mission, Sir?
A: The recognition at a state funeral should be for all, not just one man. And, the historical record of the last Medal of Honor recipient from World War II having a state funeral will have great historical value.
Q: Is it OK if we put this short interview with you on your website?
A: Please do. I support your efforts 100%.
Q: Lets have dinner in NOLA Nov 15 or Thursday Nov 16, when you speak at the World War II Event.
A: We will do it!
To read Woody Williams’ full Medal of Honor Citation please go to: http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/3066/williams-hershel-woodrow.php
