September 28, 2012

Manchin Welcomes Veterans to Charleston for USS West Virginia Reunion

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today proudly welcomed 11 World War II veterans who served on the USS West Virginia for their annual reunion. They plan to gather in West Virginia this year to share stories of their time in the armed services, visit the Culture Center to view artifacts from the USS West Virginia and attend a banquet in Beckley where a 20-foot scale model of the ship has been built. 

“It is such an honor for our great state to host the USS West Virginia veterans this year,” Senator Manchin said. “I’ve always said that West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states in this great nation, and we are so proud to host one of the most recognized — and certainly one of the most resilient — crews to serve the Pacific theater of World War II. Although their battleship sunk at Pearl Harbor, it was resurrected to go on to play a crucial role in winning the Pacific theater. I know that these brave veterans will enjoy a warm reception in their namesake state, and that all the people of West Virginia thank them for all they did to secure our precious freedom. In West Virginia, great victories and great sacrifices are never forgotten.  It is because of Americans like the crew members of the USS West Virginia that our country remains a beacon for all who love liberty and cherish freedom.”

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