WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) -The public is invited to a Sign Dedication Ceremony for a local World War II veteran who earned his Medal of Honor.

Participants will pay homage to New Hanover High School graduate William D. “Billy” Halyburton Jr. of Wilmington, who earned his medal during the Battle of Okinawa.

Halyburton was born in Canton, North Carolina and was raised in Wilmington, according to event organizers. He was aspiring to become a minister before he joined the military and became a Navy hospital corpsman assigned to the 1st Marine Division.

Halyburton died shielding a wounded marine from enemy fire on May 10, 1945.

The dedication ceremony will be held on May 20 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Halyburton Park.

For more information, visit the City of Wilmington Parks & Recreation’s website.

Copyright 2025 WECT. All rights reserved.