Congressman Brian Higgins presented World War II Veteran William Wilson, Sr. with several long-overdue military medals for his service in the U.S. Navy.
“We are grateful for William’s brave service, as well as the service of all of the veterans who protect and defend our nation,” said Congressman Higgins. “I am honored to be able to present him with these medals in recognition of his courage and dedication.”
Wilson, who enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944, served as an electrician's mate in the Asiatic Pacific Theater on Guam at US Naval Base Hospital #18. During Mr. Wilson’s service, the USS Indianapolis was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine after delivering parts of the first atomic bomb to the air base at Tinian Island for eventual delivery to Hiroshima. The USS Indianapolis sank and of the nearly twelve hundred crewmen aboard only 317 sailors survived. Many of the survivors were treated at the hospital where Mr. Wilson was serving.
Mr. Wilson grew up in Buffalo’s Old First Ward and currently lives in Orchard Park with his wife of 61 years, Theresa. They have 5 children, including a son, Paul, who served in the U.S. Army Reserves.
Congressman Higgins presented Mr. Wilson with the World War II Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Navy Discharge Button, and the Honorable Service Lapel Pin.
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