Heather Robinson: Remembering The Life And Service Of American Hero Woody Williams

New York Post contributor Heather Robinson joins Fox Across America With guest host Jason Chaffetz to talk about the life and legacy of World War II veteran Hershel “Woody” Williams, who passed away at the end of June. He was  the last surviving World War II recipient of the Medal of Honor.

“He lived to be 98 years old, a very good, long life. He served in World War II on Iwo Jima. And as I wrote, many Americans are familiar with the iconic photo of the Marines raising the flag there. His role was to really help blaze the trail and break through enemy resistance. Waves and waves of Marines were just being slaughtered, thousands and thousands of them trying to take that particular island, which was viewed as very strategically crucial to be able to refuel planes on the way to Japan. And at that time, the thinking was that there might be a bombing campaign. And, ultimately, we know how things did end up. But it was viewed as a very pivotal point in the war. And he was a 21-year old man who was asked by his desperate commander to try to use his flamethrower to break through the enemy lines. The Japanese were firing from within reinforced concrete pillboxes. And it was virtually impenetrable. And thousands and thousands of Marines had died trying. So he charged forward on foot, with several Marines, several of whom were killed who were covering him. And he miraculously was not. And he kept returning to refuel, and he neutralized several pillboxes. He persevered through a lot of hand-to-hand combat for 4 hours and broke through and allowed for armored vehicles and tanks to be able to break through and take Iwo Jima. So his valor in battle was exceptional.”

Over the weekend, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that Williams will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol.

Listen to the podcast to hear what else Heather had to say!