Extremely rare dedication honors Puyallup WWII soldier awarded the Medal of Honor

The lobby at Puyallup City Hall was renamed to honor Lt. Victor Leonard Kandle, a local World War II veteran who received the Medal of Honor posthumously, during a heartfelt dedication ceremony. Mayor Jim Kastama highlighted how unique such dedications are and stressed the importance of remembering those who sacrificed for their community and country. Kandle's heroic actions in France on October 9, 1944, led to his receiving the Medal of Honor, recognizing his significant contributions in combat. The initiative to rename the lobby was proposed by retired Lt.

Col. Jack Taylor, with strong support from Kandle's family and local veteran organizations. The ceremony featured a restored plaque and memorabilia, including heartfelt letters Kandle wrote to his wife while serving. Terry Kandle, Lt. Kandle's son, expressed gratitude to the community for honoring his father's legacy, recalling how he was only two years old when his father died.

Attendees appreciated the displayed letters and medals, which served as tangible connections to Kandle's service and sacrifice. Taylor, motivated by a desire to educate the community on military history, emphasized the importance of recognizing local heroes to inspire future generations.