Congress of the United States
Washington, DC 20510
December 18, 2018
President Donald J. Trump
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President.
Thank you for this opportunity to write today in support of the Utah American Legion which is helping to spearhead an effort to designate a non-presidential state funeral for the last living Medal of Honor recipient from World War II.
It was awe-inspiring to watch the patriotic display at the state funeral for President Herbert Walker Bush, our last World War II generation president. As we bid farewell to this great leader, it reminded me of the unique opportunity that exists to honor the truly brave and courageous military men and women who also served.
The idea for a state funeral for the last living WWII Medal of Honor recipient came from Rabel McNutt, a 10-year-old school girl in Texas and the goddaughter of late WWII Medal of Honor recipient Walter Ehlers. Since she began promoting this idea, thousands of supporters have signed petitions to advance this initiative, and the American Legion passed a Resolution of Support at its National Convention in August 2018.
This idea is not without precedent. Many non-presidential state funerals have been held including a state funeral for the Unknown Soldier of World War I. If you were to approve this designation I believe it would be a poignant way to thank the millions of patriotic American families who had a parent, spouse, son or daughter, or family member who served in World War II, a truly important and challenging time in our nation’s history. It is estimated that more than 35 million families today that can identify with this designation.
Considering the youngest of four remaining WWII Medal of Honor recipients is 93-years-old, this designation needs to take place as soon as possible. If a non-presidential state funeral were to be held for this honor, you will be providing an honor to more than 16 million women and men who courageously serve America during 1941-1945.
Sincerely,
(Personally signed by each Utah Congressional Delegate)
Orin G. Hatch, United States Senator
Mike Lee, United States Senator
John Curtis, Member of Congress
Mia B. Love, Member of Congress
Chris Stewart, Member of Congress
Rob Bishop, Member of Congress