Ogles’ Bill to Rename Columbia Post Office After Medal of Honor Recipient John Harlan Willis Passes the House
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) just passed HR 6808 to rename the Columbia, Tennessee, post office after Columbia native and Medal of Honor recipient John Harlan Willis in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The bill designates the United States Postal Service facility in Columbia, Tennessee, as the “John Harlan Willis Post Office Building,” ensuring that the heroism of this native son of Middle Tennessee is remembered for generations to come. This legislation now heads to the Senate for consideration.
“John Harlan Willis represents the very best of Tennessee and the very best of America,” said Rep. Ogles. “On the black sands of Iwo Jima, he displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness, sacrificing his life to save his fellow Marines. It is only fitting that we honor his legacy in his hometown of Columbia. This designation ensures that his bravery and devotion to duty will never be forgotten,” said Congressman Ogles.
“Born in Columbia, Tennessee, Willis served as a U.S. Navy Pharmacist’s Mate attached to a Marine infantry unit during World War II. On February 19, 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima, he continued treating wounded Marines despite his own injuries. After throwing back eight enemy grenades, Willis heroically held the ninth grenade to protect others, sacrificing his life. For his valor, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor,” Congressman Ogles said.
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