DescriptionHershel W. Williams recounts his childhood and his time in the Marines during World War II. In particular, Williams comments on his childhood on a dairy farm, the events leading up to his enlistment in the Marines, basic training at Parris Island, and what it's like to being a rifleman while wrestling with the reality of killing. He also details his deployment, seeing coconut trees for the first time, the harsh conditions in Guam, fighting on Iwo Jima, and his Congressional Medal of Honor. His interview wraps up with discussions over his life after the service, including his work with the Veteran Affairs system, as well as comments on the aspects of the Armed Forces that he would change from the inside.