Washington, DC— March 25, 2021….Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today recognized National Medal of Honor Day by joining local community members and leaders in honoring Harrison World War II hero Jack Williams, a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his valor during the Battle of Iwo Jima, in which he saved many lives at the cost of his own. The event paid tribute to the sacrifice of Jack and also recognized the lasting impact his legacy has had on Harrison.   

Congressman Womack said, “Jack Williams selflessly gave his last full measure of devotion to defend our freedom. His actions were about putting his country first, and his legacy of service to our community continues at Camp Jack. Today, we honored an Arkansas hero and reflected on the true meaning of valor.”

In coordination with the ceremony, Womack had a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., which will be presented to the Jack Williams Veterans Resource Center “Camp Jack,” a recently opened Harrison non-profit organization committed to serving local veterans with respect, honor, and compassion, later this month. Additionally, Harrison Mayor Jerry Jackson and a representative from Judge Robert Hathaway’s Office announced a new proclamation declaring March 25^th the "Jack Williams Medal of Honor Recipient Day" in Harrison and Boone County. A special plaque was presented to family members of Jack Williams, commemorating the moment.

Many community members and state leaders participated in the tribute, including Camp Jack President Matt Russell, Boone County War Memorial Association President Jim Penich, Treasurer of Camp Jack and Commander of American Legion Post 44 Lonnie Anderson, Harrison Chamber CEO Bob Largent, Judge Gordon Webb, Arkansas VA Chief of Staff Austin Booth, veterans, Boy Scouts (Troop 60), and other representatives from Camp Jack, the American Legion, and the VFW.

Awarded by Congress and presented by the President of the United States, the Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious award in the U.S. military. A biography of Jack Williams can be read here.

Congressman Womack presents Camp Jack President Matt Russell with a certificate stating a flag was being flown over the U.S. Capitol to honor Jack Williams and Camp Jack (Photo credit: Lee Dunlap, Harrison Daily Times)

Jim Penich presents the family members of Jack Williams with a plaque commemorating the event and proclamation  (Photo credit: Congressman Womack’s Office)

Congressman Womack speaks at the event and talks about the valor of Jack Williams and the Greatest Generation (Photo credit: Lee Dunlap, Harrison Daily Times)

The ceremony opened up with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance (Photo credit: Lee Dunlap, Harrison Daily Times)

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

womack.house.gov

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