In a rare display of bipartisan cooperation, West Virginia Republican Sen. Jim Justice succeeded in passing the Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act, which will place a monument honoring World War II Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams on the National Mall. The measure cleared the Senate unanimously in March and was approved by the House on Aug. 31, now awaiting President Trump’s signature.
Local roots, national impact
Justice, who was elected to the Senate in 2024, highlighted the personal significance of the effort. Williams, a native of West Virginia, earned the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima, where he used a flamethrower to neutralize Japanese positions under heavy fire. He was the last surviving World II Medal of Honor recipient before his death in 2022 at age 98.
“I’ve never seen anything like this,” Justice said in an interview with Fox News Digital. “We’re finally honoring a true American hero and all Medal of Honor recipients in a place where the nation can see it.” He added that the unanimous vote demonstrated that, despite the Senate’s “Romper‑Room behavior,” respectful dialogue can still produce lasting results.
How the deal was struck
Justice described the breakthrough as a product of personal conversation rather than partisan maneuvering. While preparing to bring the measure to the Senate floor, he met with Democratic colleague Sen. Martin Heinrich (D‑NM) on the steps of the Senate chamber, accompanied by four Medal of Honor recipients. Justice recalled, “We sat down, talked, and within three minutes the vote was done—boom, boom, boom.” Both senators emphasized the need for civility and mutual respect, noting that the Senate’s procedural gridlock often stems from a lack of basic communication.
He also referenced his former chief of staff, Brian Abraham, who bluntly described the Senate’s paralysis: “People here don’t want to get something done; they just keep fundraising and re‑election cycles.” Justice used that observation to call for a return to purpose‑driven governance.
Why the monument matters
The Williams National Medal of Honor Monument will be situated within the Reserve on the National Mall, a prominent location that underscores the nation’s gratitude to its most courageous service members. Justice said the monument not only honors Williams by name but also serves as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by all Medal of Honor recipients, past and present.
“Woody Williams was all about us, not about himself,” Justice noted. “His story inspires future generations, and I want my children and grandchildren to see that we can stand up for what’s right and be recognized for it.”
Looking ahead
Justice expressed optimism that President Trump will sign the legislation within the coming week, completing the process that began with bipartisan cooperation. He also used the occasion to urge fellow lawmakers to “grow up,” abandon childish partisan fights, and focus on serving the American people.
While the monument’s approval marks a bright spot, Justice acknowledged that broader Senate reforms—such as addressing the 60‑vote filibuster threshold—remain necessary to restore functional governance. Nonetheless, the unanimous passage of the Williams monument stands as a testament to what can be achieved when elected officials prioritize shared values over partisan rivalry.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
