Rep. Jenkins Introduces Bill to Rename Huntington VA for Woody Williams

Press Release

U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) has introduced legislation to rename the Huntington VA Medical Center in honor of World War II Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams.

H.R. 3663 is cosponsored by West Virginia's other House members, Reps. David McKinley and Alex Mooney. If enacted, the full name of the hospital would be the Hershel "Woody' Williams VA Medical Center.

"Woody Williams is, quite simply, an American hero. He is an example of the best that West Virginia and our nation have to offer. He ran into danger in Iwo Jima to save his fellow soldiers, fight for freedom, and complete the mission. Even today, he continues to fight for our veterans and the families of our fallen service men and women.

"Woody is a member of my Service Academy Board and advises me on nominating young West Virginians for admission to our nation's service academies. His wisdom and insight are invaluable, and I am humbled to call him a constituent and a friend. Renaming the Huntington VA Medical Center to honor his service is a fitting tribute for all he has done for our veterans," Rep. Jenkins said.

Woody Williams is a West Virginia native and lives in Ona in Cabell County. He is the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima. After completing his military service, he worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs as a veterans service representative for 33 years.

He also founded the Hershel Woody Williams Medal of Honor Foundation to recognize the sacrifices of our nation's Gold Star families.

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