"The Cause is Greater Than I" By Ken Riege USAF 1985 – 1993 This statement is not only the motto of the Hershel “Woody” Williams Medal of Honor Foundation, it’s words that we can and should live by. First a little about the man, Mr. Hershel “Woody” Williams. Woody
was born on 2 October 1923 in West Virginia, where he still resides today. He is one of only two WWII Medal of Honor Recipients still living. All those who know Woody, know that he has the energy and stamina of 10 men half his age. Woody earned his medal of honor for his actions on Iwo Jima. I am so proud and honored to be considered a friend of Woody’s along
with his family. There is so much more that can be said about Woody, but I will leave that up to you, the reader, to do some research online or watch one of the many videos about Woody on YouTube. This story will mainly focus on his extraordinary efforts with his Gold Star Families Foundation and Memorials.
Their Mission statement is as follows: To honor, recognize, and serve Gold Star Families and the legacy of their Loved Ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Here is a picture of Mr. Hershel “Woody” Williams with one of his Gold Star Family Memorials. Woody’s Foundation’s main goals of establishing Gold Star Family Memorial Monuments are: The Monuments provide a place of permanence for Gold Star Families
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to gather and utilize as they see fit. These Monuments belong to the Gold Star Families and their fallen loved ones. They are intended to achieve the following:
Demonstrate to Gold Star Families that their community cares for them and appreciates their sacrifices while
