Honoring Hershel "Woody" Williams with statue in National Statuary Hall Collection
The resolution mandates the replacement of the existing statue of John Kenna in the National Statuary Hall Collection with a new statue of Hershel Williams. The significance of this bill lies in its recognition of those who have served the state and country, thereby inspiring future generations. By embedding Williams’ legacy in the National Statuary Hall, this resolution highlights the contributions of veterans to the state’s identity and honors the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
SCR202 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution honoring Hershel 'Woody' Williams, a distinguished Marine Corps veteran and Medal of Honor recipient, by proposing his statue be placed in the National Statuary Hall Collection in place of John Kenna's statue. This resolution recognizes Williams for his extraordinary bravery during World War II and his ongoing contributions to the community, notably through the establishment of the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument program, which honors the families of fallen service members. This decision reflects West Virginia's commitment to celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and the nation.
The general sentiment surrounding SCR202 is one of pride and respect for military service. Legislators and community members have expressed strong support for honoring Williams, viewing the resolution as a proper recognition of his valor and contributions. This positive sentiment is indicative of a broader appreciation for veterans in West Virginia, as well as the desire to preserve and honor their legacies within significant national spaces.
The adoption of SCR202 points to a broader discussion regarding the representation of historical figures in national commemorations. While the resolution received unanimous support during the voting process, it may evoke discussions around which figures are honored and how historical narratives are constructed. There could be potential debates about historical representation, especially concerning the replacement of existing statues, although no significant contention was noted in the current legislative discussion surrounding this resolution.