LAST WWII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT DIES AT 98

Today the WWII Veterans History Project honors the life and service of Hershel "Woody" Williams, America's last living Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. Woody passed away early this morning at the age of 98, after a lifetime dedicated to honoring and serving his fellow veterans.

Woody received his medal of honor for gallantry "above and beyond the call of duty" while serving as a demolition sergeant with the 21st Marines, 3rd Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, February 23, 1945.

On the small and heavily fortified volcanic island, Williams repeatedly assaulted enemy positions with a flamethrower and explosive charges to clear the way for the Marines who remained pinned down under the brutal enemy onslaught.

Over the course of four hours, he attacked a system of fortified concrete pillboxes, fighting the enemy at point-blank range as they charged him with bayonets. At one point, he climbed atop a bunker, inserted the nozzle through an air vent, and unleashed a burst of flame that killed the occupants. His determination and heroism in the face of ruthless enemy resistance were directly instrumental in neutralizing one of the most fanatically defended Japanese strongpoints encountered by his regiment on Iwo Jima. His efforts saved the lives of countless Marines.

Woody's passing marks the end of an era. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

"Giving the Past a Future, One Story at a Time."

WWII Veterans History Project