Governor Tomblin Appoints Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams to West Virginia Veterans' Council

7/30/2012

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today announced the appointment of Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams to the West Virginia Veterans' Council. The appointment is effective immediately.

"I've had the honor and privilege of working with Woody throughout the years," said Gov. Tomblin. "An advocate for veterans, Woody is actively involved in both state and national veterans groups. More than a veteran, he embodies patriotism and honor. I'm pleased Woody has accepted my appointment to the Veterans' Council."

Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams, West Virginia's last living Medal of Honor recipient, served in the United States Marine Corps. After being wounded at Iwo Jima on March 6, 1945, he received the Purple Heart, and on October 5, 1945 he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman.

When advised of his appointment Woody Williams said, "I am extremely proud to serve on one of the most important Councils along with other notable Veterans, involving the Veterans and their loved ones who sacrificed much to make sure Mountaineers are always free."

In accordance with Chapter 9A, Article 1, Section 2, as amended, The West Virginia Code provides that there shall be a Veterans Council, "consisting of nine members who must be citizens and residents of this state and who have served in and been honorably discharged or separated under honorable conditions from the Armed Forces of the United States and whose service was within a time of war as defined by the laws of the United States".

Read original press release.