Last WWII Medal of Honor recipient watches his great-grandson graduate from boot camp

Hershel "Woody" Williams watches his great-grandson, Cody Ross graduate from boot camp. I Kristen's Kudos
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[@Gromit801]

And every officer, enlisted, and boot was required to salute that man.

[@graceneilitz7661]

If the Medal of Honor recipient was enlisted than it is optional for officers, but it is customary. Lower ranked enlisted have to though.

[@Gromit801]

@@graceneilitz7661 They must have changed the rules since I was in the military.

[@markdunham9634]

@@graceneilitz7661 This is wrong. There is no law or DOD regulation that requires anyone to salute a MOH recipient. However, by tradition and deeply ingrained custom, they are afforded salutes regardless of rank.

[@roberthudson1959]

@@markdunham9634 Document, please. I have read several sources that claim the custom has been codified.

[@markdunham9634]

@@roberthudson1959 I mean, it's hard to document the non-existence of a document, but it's easily researchable.

[@Legendary_UA]

The coolest thing would have been seeing all the brass salute him.

[@michaelwelch1980]

Oh I would have loved to see that

[@ru1of133]

I thought that was a requirement

[@Spazilton1]

@@KZbinGuy-dm7uy He was a CWO4 when he retired.

[@WHERMST_]

@@ru1of133it’s not but they do it out of respect

[@JD-tn5lz]

It is an honored custom to salute any wearer of the Medal of Honor regardless of their rank or your rank.

[@silverstar4289]

How blessed the new Marine is to have enjoyed his great grandfather into his adulthood.

[@bobbyricigliano2799]

Every American owes a debt of gratitude to this great man. Godspeed, Sir.

[@firstname9954]

ill be honest,i dont like america's foreign policies, and I am not american myself but everyone in a free country owes that man a debt of gratitude, while there are a lot of factors on why the allies won world war 2, the US was one of the most influential ones

[@JoeyP946]

as a Dutch guy I am thankful for the US military and it's brave soldiers.

[@GORT70]

We’re free because of this man.

[@wholeNwon]

And many more.

[@melodied4314]

Woody Williams was the embodiment of bravery, pride, and patriotism. RIP sir. I salute you.

[@TickleSalty]

My dad was with the USMC 1ST Division and was a veteran of the Guadalcanal campaign. He said his proudest moment would’ve been watching me graduate at Parris Island 30 years later. I can understand how Mr Williams felt seeing his great grandson graduate. SEMPER FI gentlemen.

[@Loukious]

My grandfather on My Dad's side passed before I graduated from Naval bootcamp. I was 3rd Gen Navy. Grandpa was WW2 B-25 Pilot, Dad was Naval officer and I was a Corpsman. When I graduated from Bootcamp I thought it would be just my Dad there (that was funny on it's own him being an 0-6) but my Grandfathers co-pilot for his B-25 was there too. He showed up and told me that my Grandfather was tossing back a few shots for me.

[@dallisb1047]

​@@Loukious Thank you for sharing. My Dad was an Army Korean War Vet. He saw me graduate basic training. I saw one of my sons graduated Navy boot camp and another Army basic and infantry school. My Sailor chased samoli pirates and My Soldier earned a CIB in afghanistan. Thank you and your family for your service.

[@carlhicksjr8401]

I don't know why this hasn't gotten more love on the net. This is an **extraordinary** event It's so extraordinary that this old Army cavalry corporal will not make jarhead jokes out of sincere respect to the Williams and Ross families. A respectful tip of the Stetson to you. Semper fi.

[@JoeyP946]

I still can't imagine being a soldier or marine in WW2, I have the utmost respect for these men

[@AdamErwin-uk7uj]

or sailor, especially in the Pacific

[@Gregorrin]

I can. I played Call of Duty.

[@lewcifer820]

@@Gregorrin Thank you for your service.

[@dark14life]

My grandfather was a bomber mechanic in western Europe while his brother was infantry pushing east towards Berlin. The stories I used to hear growing up. From planes that you wouldn't believe managed to land despite their damage to stories about clearing Nazis from occupied homes. They're gone now, but I keep their dog tags safe and their memories alive. We can never forget what was sacrificed to protect the world from fascism.

[@cortneywonder639]

I remember when I was in boot camp, near graduation they would ask if anyone was related to a VIP that was going to attend. I would loved to have seen their reaction when this recruit told the drill instructors his great grandfather, who was a MOH recipient was attending. I bet it was priceless.

[@PrograError]

higher ups : _[ doubly sweats... ]_

[@TagYouAreNotIt]

Omg… my DIs were losing their minds on me when I told them a Col would be in attendance for mine. I could only imagine the squad bay during that discovery. Probably hit the chain quick.

[@chiefsnarlsnortz1610]

No doubt! Omg 😆

[@dallisb1047]

I was in the 82nd Airborne. I watched a son graduate Navy bootcamp and a son graduate Amy Basic Training and Infantry school. Not quite the same, but the pride and patriotism is the same. My Soldier Son did see combat in afghanistan and my Navy Son chased samoli pirates. God bless you Sir and your great grandson. And God Bless America!

[@timmcnamara1325]

the part people miss is the showing the DI's he wasn't full of crap when he told them granpa had the MoH.

[@squint04]

Deepest thanks for your service Sir! May you rest in Peace!!

[@dang6832]

That man deserves more respect than is possible. RIP Woody. ❤️ I just hope his grandson doesn’t need to earn a CMH too.

[@civilwildman]

*great-grandson

[@billjenkins687]

Rest in peace, Marine.

[@flyoverkid55]

I was stationed at U.S. Naval Hospital, Beaufort, S.C. and worked at MCRD Parris Island years ago. Would have loved every minute of watching those staff officers having to snap to when Woody walked by. I'm certain they laid it all out for him, he was a legend. God rest his soul.

[@joeblow5037]

I did Beaufort in 76-79 as VMFA-333 and graduated PI small world, my friend :-)

[@flyoverkid55]

@@joeblow5037 I was in Beaufort from late '75 through Apr.'79. Semper Fi.

[@joeblow5037]

@@flyoverkid55we went on the Nimitz's first cruise in the spring of '76-'77 (7 months) man, Beaufort was great fun after I bought my Triumph when we got back. had a bud who was a Corpsman. saved myass more than once

[@flyoverkid55]

@@joeblow5037 As you may know, Marines fell into two categories regarding Navy personnel. Some were very dismissive, others recognized the value of not stepping on toes that could be connected to the _ss that can make your life miserable down the road.

[@65stang98]

RIP woody! they had one hell of a parade for you here at home once you were gone. Ill never forget all the times you came to speak at my school when i was younger, such a kind man. Rest in Power Woody

[@kegginstructure]

I had the honor of meeting Petty Officer Marvin J Perrett, USCG, who was a coxswain (steersman) on the landing craft used on D-Day. He brought two groups to Omaha Beach, for which action he received a Medal of Honor. (He's listed in Wikipedia.) He also drive landing craft in the Pacific Theater at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. He was at the New Orleans-based WWII Museum when I took my grandson to see it. Mr. Perrett told the story of D-Day standing next to an LCVP. He was wearing his medal on the ribbon. My grandson was fascinated by this kind old gentleman telling him first-hand accounts of the events of D-Day. He was a true gentleman and quite articulate. He has since passed away, but I will never forget the man who give my grandson an exciting day. Rest in peace, Mr. Perrett. You earned it. {Salute!}

[@MustadMarine]

Honor runs deep in his blood line.

[@chrislouden6702]

Sadly he died just like so many of the greatest generation! They say less than 100,000 remain

[@roberthudson1959]

It was the current Marines who were honored by the presence of Corporal Williams.

[@crazytrain03]

I remember when my uncle, then a very prestigous Full Bird Colonel in the Marines, was going to come to my graduation. I had to get papers filled out and everything, if he was coming formally or in civilians and if he was alone. They were freaked out and sweating. He would have outranked even the base commander, who was only a LT Colonel

[@rogergolden8950]

Thank you all !!!

[@America-First2024]

Thank you sir! 🇺🇸

[@justmusic8166]

Thanks to everyone for their service, God Bless

[@ardiffley-zipkin9539]

Thank you for your service, gentlemen

[@frankmurray5216]

Thank you for your service

[@traestorm]

How can people downvote this? SMH.

[@roneverhart8662]

FROM ONE VETERAN TO A LEGEND I SALUTE U SIR

[@simonmillard8931]

This is a wholesome event. I salute you.

[@rayster6949]

Bless his heart, thank you sir for service.

[@notcrazy6288]

Rest in Peace Mr. Williams.

[@user-cb7ir6rc1t]

Gods speed and blessings to the grandfather and his grandson. Both of you where willing to stand your watch to defend this great country.

[@KM-vd9hh]

Mr. Williams and people like him made this country a great place to be.

[@capstevens2657]

Outstanding! Thank you for your service Sir! Warrior!

[@Joe-ff4if]

That's really cool he got to see his great grandson graduate before he passed away.

[@c.c.c.8251]

Thats beautiful, thank you ladies and gentlemen for all your sacrifices 😊

[@JosephPetrie-ud2wh]

A hero, thank you sir. All the best Cody.

[@wendyo2561]

How wonderful to watch this, he must have been so proud of his great grandson.

[@JK-zq9vw]

Wow! I get it’s cool he got to see his grandson graduate. But to have a living Medal Of Honor recipient at your Basic Training graduation is amazing!! His young Marine grandson now has a bond with him that goes deeper than just family.

[@SOG-xb4qh]

He's bound to create his own,,,but his proud & blessed Grandfather has given him a legacy to build on & keep strong.

[@Jmpmstrtex]

Good bless Woody. RIP Devil Dog !

[@michaelduffyjr3727]

Outstanding

[@russellcrawley3299]

Anyone who serves their country with honor is a hero to me. This story is just awesome 👍👍

[@pineappleginseng1557]

It's remarkable. We see a Marine with the greatest honor of all, but I think what's breathtaking is that, this is the road his actions paved. This is the product he and his brothers fought hard to retain and to ensure. I don't know how different the world would be, had it not been for these brave gentlemen, but I'm glad he was able to watch his own kin of succeeding generations walk the same path.

[@kenwesterhausen6798]

Thank you for your service Marine

[@scottshanklin5533]

This is so outstanding , and for someone who has served this great country and knows a thing or two about the , Medal of Honor . That's a Marines Marine , the fact that his great grandson is a Marine. What a wonderful thing , that young man has alot to live up to . But he's a Marine and he will do great . OOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRAAAAAAHHHHHH

[@williamharris9525]

Now that is absolutely amazing! as a retired serviceman myself, I absolutely understand what this means to Woody Williams, and his great great grandson, and to their family! God bless our brave men and women in uniform, both military and civilian support !!!

[@PlasmaCoolantLeak]

That was a snappy salute👍. Much respect, Marine. RIP.

[@jamesgoszewski5495]

Humanity at its finest

[@katgrey6239]

Congratulations, Marine! From the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia!!

[@artisticdriver4218]

God Bless

[@jameslashley3970]

Salute ✝️

[@barryfletcher7136]

R.I.P. CWO4 Williams

[@jaypd97]

Our heroes are the ones deserving a month's celebration for their sacrifices. We should celebrate Heroes Month and remember all those who fought for us

[@this.is.a.username]

hello bigot.. if you cared at all you'd know that May was Military Appreciation Month. I bet you complain about international women's day too.

[@scottjohnstone6430]

I think this great man just died a couple days ago, if so at least he got to see his great grandson graduate

[@scrapcash2421]

He died around the 1st of July. His funeral was on July 3, 2022!! RIP!! 😔😔

[@alexanderleach3365]

Carrying on the family legacy. Awesome!

[@davedawe2420]

What a noble, patriotic family!

[@extraslayar4585]

I saw this video in my recommended today. Its very heartwarming and was sweet to see the small clip. Then I looked at the next up video and it is titled "Remembering MOH recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams. RIP sir.

[@thewkovacs316]

god rewarded woody with a long and healthy life he got to see his great grandson join him in the corp rip to a true hero

[@user-gt2lh2ec9e]

WOW, thats an incredible VIDEO! Thanks for showing! John P.

[@adamwatkins1150]

outstanding

[@patrickwindsor1482]

God bless you sir

[@kalijasin]

RIP Hero

[@alwaysflushinpublic]

RIP Soldier Williams. Thank you,

[@billsanders5067]

He was a UNITED States Marine, please do not refere to marines as soldiers.

[@susanvaal3115]

What an honor !!!!!

[@julieenslow5915]

What an honor it is for everyone around him to see a MOH recipient. Such a man makes all the other men stand taller, and all the women to take notice. Which of course is just as it should be. Thank you for your service sir. Oh? He's passed? So no MOH from WW2 still alive. I wish I had met him. Rest in eternal Peace sir.

[@clintewen7766]

Respect

[@tedvillalon4139]

Great story.

[@veteranpatriot4474]

Think about how many of us wouldn't be here if That Man hadn't won The Medal Of Honor ?

[@williammartin9357]

That's why it's the greatest generation. Semper Fi

[@robleary3353]

Brilliant!. Everyone would have saluted the great veteran and hero!. And how great would it have been for that young cadet to later say to his buddies afterwards that's my great Grandad!. Nuff said!.

[@byronharano2391]

Finally. A news story worthy of reporting. A family's legacy of service to our United States of America 🇺🇸 ❤

[@user-gt2lh2ec9e]

Wow, VERY GOOD BLOOD IN THAT FAMILY! Thanks. John P.

[@user-gt2lh2ec9e]

Wow, what a GREAT VIDEO to show! John P.

[@mikeschumacher9715]

Woody pass in 2022, same year this was posted. His CMH citation is amazing.

[@genelancto577]

True American Hero Greatest Generations Ever ❤ US Army Veteran 11A

[@timp3035]

Amen!

[@michaelweeks9317]

"Do the best you can. Then do a little more"- Jesús how very far this Nation has fallen and most have not even gotten a clue. I weep for my grandchildren....Michael Weeks, San Antonio, Texas

[@Lucackal15]

my Great Grampa is a WWII D-Day vet that denied a purple heart for an injury that he did not think was a war time injury. he passed away before I was born

[@howlinhobbit]

some years ago I was busking at Seattle’s Pike Place Market when I noticed an old fella wearing a Congressional Medal of Honor. “Wow!” I thought, “You don’t see that everyday.” then I saw another, and another, and by the third one I wasn’t playing anymore asked him if there was a convention or something. yep, there was. I wasn’t wearing a cover, so I couldn’t salute him, but I thanked him for his service. I don’t care what you think about the military. the Medal of Honor is awarded for service above and beyond the call of duty. if you don’t have that sort of stones you don’t have the right to criticize.

[@Inspadave]

A Congressional Medal of Honor? What is that?

[@howlinhobbit]

@@Inspadave your question is answered in my comment.

[@billsanders5067]

It is offically the "Medal of Hinor", not the Congressional Medal of Honor.

[@kalijasin]

WOW!! 😮

[@ek2156]

RIP Mr. Williams. You looked sharp in your uniform to see your great grandson sir. May GOD, Jesus, and the many Marines that have preceded you welcome you into heaven with open arms.... Semper Fi.

[@ronaldkonkoma4356]

Who in their right mind gave him permission?

[@akidim13]

@@ronaldkonkoma4356what

[@331SVTCobra]

For stories like this, youtube needs something better than a single thumbs-up.... there should be a button that you can only push once every five years. I'd push such a button for this story.

[@dabeagleigl]

Now that is a great story

[@Gary-xg9px]

Semper FI. U.S.M.C. 1970-1975. Mighty touching to have his Great grandfather there for Boot graduation.

[@user-kq2mn3rg8w]

Semper Fi 👍

[@heathermetz6576]

“Do the very best that you can and then, do a little more.”

[@Butter615s]

A .30 second blurb? Really?

[@flyoverkid55]

I'm grateful that any civilian media source covered this moment.

[@arthurdean2578]

Woodie went home to his Lord. We missing him in West Virginia.

[@victorwadsworth821]

Meet him a few years back in Gainsville, Texas.

[@howardthrongard640]

Semper Fi from an old sailor (Viet-Nam vet - first year there with a Marine company).

[@this.is.a.username]

Looks like Woody went on a final mission to survive to see his great-grandson graduation. RIP

[@Airman-j4x]

Rip he grew up it my state

[@FrankOcasio]

Woody I salute you.

[@Robert-un7br]

This dude was a bad ass. He won the Medal of Honor using a flamethrower. It was used in the Pacific Theater, because the Japanese would hide in caves that were death traps to enter. The flamethrower would wipe out the enemy not by directly burning them but by using up the oxygen and asphyxiating them. It was a weapon that was extremely dangerous to operate. The flamethrower attracted enemy fire because they were terrified of it, and it would tend to ignite if shot. It almost killed as many operators as enemies. The flamethrower was considered so inhuman that today it is banned worldwide as a weapon of war.

[@victorwadsworth821]

I meet one of those guys last month who is now age 98, Don Graves. We talked about him doing just that.

[@victorwadsworth821]

He did not "WIN" the medal of honor, no one wins that medal, it's not a trophy.

[@memewithinameme35]

Semper Fi.

[@chiefsnarlsnortz1610]

Salute 🫡 RDC, USCG, Retired!

[@Demon-Slayer1983]

RIP Woody. died on June 29, 2002

[@tiffanygrever8092]

Semper ❤️