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(Carson City, NV) – The Nevada Department of Veterans Services and Governor Brian Sandoval are pleased to announce highly decorated U.S. Army veteran William (Bill) Knapp will receive the “Veteran of the Month” award and recognition on Thursday, April 20, 2017.  
 
The ceremony will take place in room #1100 inside the Grant Sawyer Building located at 555 East Washington Avenue in Las Vegas beginning at 10:00 AM. The public is invited to attend.  
 
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 Legion of Honor. He served in WWII in the 82nd Airborne Division, 508th Parachute Infantry Reg. 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.