Chuck Grassley: “Today I pay tribute to a remarkable business and civic leader from my home State who passed away peacefully at age 99…”

“Today I pay tribute to a remarkable business and civic leader from my home State who passed away peacefully at age 99 surrounded by his beloved family members. A World War II veteran, William C. Knapp is an American patriot who piloted landing craft amidst kamikaze attacks during the Battle of Okinawa in the Pacific Theater, one of the bloodiest battles of World War II. A member of the 'Greatest Generation,' he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17, a bold decision that underscored how he would pursue entrepreneurial endeavors for the rest of his life, fueled by humble beginnings, his own 'gut check,' and strong farm kid work ethic. Bill's zest for life was shaped by his wartime experience, surviving fierce fighting during the largest amphibian landing of the Pacific theater with heavy death tolls on both sides. The experience left an indelible imprint in his mind and on his heart, compelling him time and again to pay it forward for his fellow veterans. Two decades ago, Bill donated land for the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, providing sacred ground for tens of thousands of burials for Iowa veterans. On Friday, November 21, Bill will be laid to rest with full military honors among other Iowa hometown heroes on the land he donated to honor veterans for generations to come. Bill's donation of prime real estate is but one example of his generosity and commitment to share his blessings and make a difference.”