Royce E. Williams
| Era | Korean War |
|---|---|
| Branch | U.S. Navy |
| Rank | Captain |
| Military Decorations | Distinguished Flying Cross Legion of Merit Medal of Honor |
| Wall | CC |
| Wall Side | 2 |
| Row | 3 |
| Plaque Number | 1 |
ROYCE E. WILLIAMS WAS HONORED AT MT. SOLEDAD NATIONAL VETERANS MEMORIAL ON MAY 1ST, 2026
Captain E. Royce Williams, USN (Ret.) earned the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award for valor, for extraordinary heroism displayed during a historic aerial battle in the Korean War on November 18, 1952. Flying an F9F-5 Panther from the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, Williams found himself engaged in a fierce dogfight against seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter aircraft over the Sea of Japan. Despite being heavily outnumbered and flying an aircraft considered inferior to the MiGs, Williams fought alone for approximately 35 minutes, shooting down four enemy aircraft and damaging others in one of the most remarkable air battles in U.S. naval aviation history.
During the engagement, Williams’ aircraft sustained extensive battle damage, including more than 260 bullet holes, yet he skillfully maintained control of the crippled jet and successfully returned to his carrier. His actions protected fellow pilots, sailors, and the carrier task force operating in the region. Military historians have described the encounter as one of the greatest feats of aerial combat ever accomplished by a naval aviator.
Because the Soviet Union’s direct participation in the Korean War was classified, Williams was ordered to remain silent about the battle. For more than five decades, he honored that order and rarely spoke of the engagement, even with family members. As Cold War records were later declassified, the full story of his heroism emerged and efforts began to secure proper recognition for his actions.
Williams was initially awarded the Silver Star, which was upgraded to the Navy Cross in 2023. After further review and congressional action removing time limitations on the award process, he was presented the Medal of Honor on February 24, 2026, more than 73 years after the battle. At 100 years old, he became the oldest recipient ever to receive the Medal of Honor and the last living Medal of Honor recipient of the Korean War.
Captain Royce Williams’ courage, determination, and unwavering devotion to duty embody the highest traditions of the United States Navy. His legendary victory against overwhelming odds stands as a lasting testament to the valor, sacrifice, and fighting spirit of America’s service members.
Plaque Wall Map
