WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06), Senator Kyrsten Sinema (AZ), and the entire Arizona Congressional delegation sent a letter to President Biden requesting a non-presidential state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II.

“The Greatest Generation stormed the beaches of Normandy, sailed across the Pacific, and trekked throughout Europe to secure freedom in the United States and across the world,” said Rep. David Schweikert. “The heroes from World War II deserve every honor our country can give them, and that includes paying our respects to the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from this war, Mr. Hershel “Woody” Williams. To pay tribute to his heroic actions in battle, and those of each soldier that bravely fought for our country, I am requesting President Biden hold a non-presidential state funeral for Mr. Williams. By doing this, our nation can offer a final honor and salute to Mr. Williams and the millions of American heroes from World War II.”
 
“Four Arizona WWII veterans received the Medal of Honor for their bravery and selfless service. We’re requesting a non-presidential state funeral to rightfully honor these incredible Arizonans, all who served in World War II, and our last surviving WWII Medal of Honor recipient for fighting to keep our country safe and secure,” said Senator Kyrsten Sinema, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Background
This letter was also signed by: Sen. Mark Kelly (AZ), Rep. Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01), Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-02), Rep. Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03), Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04), Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Rep. Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), and Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-09).

To read the full text of the letter, click here.

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