• Apr 25, 2024
  • 1:01 AM

Decorated Veteran Receives “Veteran of the Month” Award and Recognition


(Carson City, NV) – At the young age of 94, William “Bill” Knapp is vibrant and now back in the spotlight.  
The Nevada Department of Veterans Services and Governor Brian Sandoval are pleased to announce the highly decorated U.S. Army veteran received the “Veteran of the Month” award and recognition on Thursday, April 20, 2017 inside the Grant Sawyer Building in Las Vegas, NV.  
The special ceremony for the WWII veteran recognizes Knapp’s continuing contributions to fellow veterans and community. Governor Brian Sandoval said, “Bill Knapp’s commitment to serve is demonstrated in his both his time in the military and his life as a civilian.” The Governor added, “Even at the young age of 94, Bill still continues to serve his community and others.”  
Knapp is a member of the Southern Nevada Patriot Guard Riders, whose members ensure a veteran who has passed away, will never have to take that “final walk” alone. They are present during “Ceremonies for the Unaccompanied,” at the Southern Nevada State Veterans Cemetery in Boulder City, NV. At the age of 94, Knapp accepts the American Flag on behalf of WWII veterans during those Thursday ceremonies. Knapp also remembers his fellow WWII veteran friends who have passed away by placing a flag every week on their graves.  
In 2015, Knapp was awarded the French National Order of the Legion of Honor. He served in WWII in the 82nd Airborne Division, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment from 1942-1946. For his service he received several other honors including; the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, and a Battlefield Commission.  
Knapp is also a member of the American Legion and is a current member of Post 76. He attends church every Sunday and remains committed to helping others. In his younger years, Knapp was a very active member of the Shriners International “precision motorcycle club.” He retired his bike at the age of 74.  
The “Veteran of the Month” and “Veteran Supporter of the Month” awards are provided through the Nevada Department of Veterans Services. The awards are part of the Governor’s commitment to make Nevada the “friendliest State in the nation” to its military community and veterans. If you have a Veteran or Veteran Supporter you would like to nominate, please email Pamela Roberts at robertsp@veterans.nv.gov.