100-Year-Old Navy Veteran Awarded Medal of Honor for Korean War Heroics

Captain Royce Williams to receive nation's highest military honor for 1952 dogfight against Soviet MiGs

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A 100-year-old Navy veteran named Royce Williams is being awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration, for his heroic actions during the Korean War. In 1952, Williams engaged in a 35-minute dogfight against seven Soviet MiG-15 fighters, shooting down at least four enemy planes. His actions were kept classified for decades, but are now being recognized over 70 years later.

Why it matters

Williams' story highlights the bravery and skill of American fighter pilots during the Korean War, a conflict that is often overshadowed by World War II and the Vietnam War. His actions also raise questions about the tensions between the U.S. and Soviet Union during the Cold War era. The recognition of Williams' heroism after so many years also speaks to the importance of honoring military service, even long after the fact.

The details

On November 18, 1952, Williams was flying a combat air patrol mission over North Korea when he was attacked by seven Soviet-piloted MiG-15 fighters. In the ensuing 35-minute dogfight, Williams shot down at least four enemy planes and likely damaged two others, all while his own Panther jet was hit 263 times. Williams continued fighting until only one MiG remained, then returned to his aircraft carrier after running out of ammunition. His actions were kept classified for decades due to concerns about escalating tensions with the Soviet Union.

  • On November 18, 1952, Williams engaged in the dogfight against the Soviet MiGs.
  • In February 2026, it was announced that Williams' Navy Cross would be upgraded to the Medal of Honor.
  • On July 11, 2025, Williams flew in Foley, Alabama's historic 1941 N3N biplane as part of the annual Veterans Flight.

The players

Royce Williams

A 100-year-old Navy veteran who is being awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Korean War in 1952, when he shot down at least four Soviet-piloted MiG-15 fighters in a 35-minute dogfight.

Phil Webb

A retired Navy aviator who flew Williams in Foley, Alabama's 1941 N3N biplane as part of the annual Veterans Flight in 2025.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who will present Williams with the Medal of Honor.

City of Foley

The city in Alabama that acquired a historic 1941 N3N biplane and is constructing a museum to commemorate its involvement in World War II and Navy aviation.

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What they’re saying

“It's about time! And so well worth it and deserved. His dogfight against seven Russian MiGs is nothing short of miraculous! That he is even here to tell the story is a testament to his skill and abilities as a fighter pilot of the first magnitude.”

— Phil Webb, Retired Navy Aviator (obawebsite.com)

“He enjoyed the flight immensely - as did I! It was a true honor getting to fly with him as I had heard about his exploits in 1952.”

— Phil Webb, Retired Navy Aviator (obawebsite.com)

“It was the supreme honor of my flying career. I cannot emphasize that enough! A true honor to be able to fly with him!”

— Phil Webb, Retired Navy Aviator (obawebsite.com)

What’s next

In February 2026, officials will formally present Captain Royce Williams with the Medal of Honor from President Donald Trump.

The takeaway

This story serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and skill of American fighter pilots during the Korean War, a conflict that is often overshadowed. It also highlights the importance of honoring military service, even decades after the fact, and the lasting impact that heroic actions can have on a community.