1. In 1942, West Virginia native Hershel "Woody" Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. Williams was just one of 27 Marines to be awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions during the battle.

2. On February 19, 1861, West Virginia officially seceded from Virginia during the Civil War, becoming its own state. This move was viewed as a result of Virginia's decision to secede from the Union, which West Virginia residents strongly opposed.

3. In 1928, William G. Conley was sworn in as West Virginia's 16th governor. Conley was the first West Virginia governor to be elected by popular vote. Prior to the adoption of the 17th Amendment in 1913, governors were appointed by the state legislature.

4. On February 19, 1915, West Virginia passed the first state law regulating the practice of chiropractic medicine. The state became a model for other states looking to regulate this controversial form of medicine.

5. In 1986, West Virginia native and basketball legend Jerry West was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. West played for the Los Angeles Lakers and was known for his incredible shooting ability and aggressive play. He later became an NBA coach and executive.