WLNS: Bill introduced to rename Jackson VA Clinic after Pearl Harbor survivor Herb Elfring

A new U.S. House bill would rename the VA clinic in Jackson, Michigan, after Herb Elfring, a veteran from Jackson who died last year at 102 years old. Elfring was one of the last known survivors of Pearl Harbor.

Elfring founded Brooklyn, Michigan-based One Stop Veteran Resources, a nonprofit veteran support and mentorship program.

The legislation was introduced by U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Tipton).

“I was fortunate enough to meet Herb before his passing and hear firsthand about his experiences during World War II and the bravery he displayed while defending our freedoms,” Walberg wrote in a statement. “He will forever be remembered for his patriotism, his commitment to our community and his dedication to highlighting the importance of freedom with younger generations.”

Elfring served in the U.S. Army National Guard. A member of the 251st Coast Artillery, he was stationed at Hawaii’s Camp Malakole near Pearl Harbor. He was awarded several medals, including a World War II medal, American Defense Medal and the American Campaign Medal. After Elfring’s death last year, Walberg honored him on the floor of the U.S. House.