(Grand Haven, MI) – More than 100 years after Corporal George Willis of Spring Lake was shot and wounded by a German machine gun in France, his family has accepted a Purple Heart for him. Daughter Verla Thomas sent her father’s documents to researcher Chris Petras, who worked with Congresswoman Hillary Scholten to get Willis the honor he earned during World War One. Petras says it is amazing that there are still sons and daughters alive whose father’s fought in the first world war and he has helped other local veterans receive their Purple Hearts.
Rep. Scholten:
“Wills began his career when he enlisted in Michigan National Guard Company F Grand Haven in May 1918. He served as a Private in Company E, 55th Infantry. Later, he was transferred to the 104th Infantry where he and his team advanced on enemy soldiers to successfully recapture a key railway hub. Wills was injured during this effort. After WWI ended, Wills enlisted once more in Company F Grand Haven in September 1924 and was Honorably Discharged roughly one year later. I want to thank Dr. Chris Petras, who first contacted my team to help secure these medals from the Army. Any West Michigander who hasn’t received the medals they’re owed from their service should reach out to my team. We will do everything we can to deliver those medals to you.”
“Today’s ceremony is a terrific representation of the level of support Michigan Veterans and their families can expect in Michigan,” said U.S. Brig. Gen. R.V. Wagh, assistant to the adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard. “We are elated to participate in today’s commemoration of Corporal George Wills’ heroic efforts during World War I, it is truly a privilege to see his family members receive his Purple Heart. We are grateful to Congresswoman Scholten and Dr. Chris Petras for their dedication and commitment to honoring Michigan Veterans.”
Thomas says her dad would have not believed he was worthy of being recognized, but she does
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