COLLINS ASSISTS IN AWARDING MEDALS TO NAVY VETERAN

WASHINGTON, DC -- Senator Susan Collins will present Navy veteran Lannes Williams with Distinguished Flying Crosses and Air Medals that he earned during service in World War II but never received. A special medal ceremony will be held on Friday, August 22nd, at 1:30pm at the Augusta Armory at 179 Western Avenue in Augusta. Senator Collins helped retrieve the information documenting Williams' heroic deeds to obtain the belated decorations.

"For too many decades now, Lannes Williams has been an unsung hero. It is only right that he get the recognition that he deserves," said Senator Collins. "It is my honor to be able to celebrate the great sacrifices he made, and ensure that his legacy of distinction intact."

Williams served as a Radioman with the US Navy's Fleet Air Wing 7 Bomber Squadron. He received and transmitted coded messages, handled radar used to detect anti-submarine U-boats, and manned the twin 50 caliber gun that was mounted on the top turret. Senator Collins helped retrieve the information documenting Williams' heroic deeds to obtain the belated decorations.