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Korean War Pilot Awarded Congressional Medal of Honor
Royce Williams, a 100-year-old Escondido resident, to receive nation's highest military decoration for his heroic actions in 1952.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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Royce Williams, a Korean War fighter pilot and Escondido, California resident, will be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in 1952 when he single-handedly engaged and shot down four Soviet MiG fighter jets during an aerial battle. Williams kept his role in the dogfight secret for over 50 years until Soviet records were declassified decades later, leading to a campaign by veterans and elected officials to ensure he was properly recognized.
Why it matters
The awarding of the Congressional Medal of Honor to Royce Williams, now 100 years old, shines a light on a previously untold story of heroism and valor from the Korean War era. Williams' actions not only saved the lives of his fellow pilots and crew, but also highlight the complexities of the Cold War conflict and the importance of properly recognizing the sacrifices of American service members, even years after the fact.
The details
On November 18, 1952, Royce Williams, a Navy fighter pilot, engaged in a 35-minute aerial battle against seven Soviet MiG fighter jets off the coast of North Korea. Despite being outnumbered, Williams shot down four of the Soviet planes before narrowly surviving the intense enemy gunfire. Williams agreed to keep the incident secret at the time because the Soviet Union was unofficially involved in the Korean War.
- On November 18, 1952, Williams engaged in the aerial battle against the Soviet MiGs.
- In 2023, Williams was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions.
- This week, Williams was informed by President Donald Trump that he will receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.
The players
Royce Williams
A 100-year-old Korean War fighter pilot and resident of Escondido, California, who will be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in 1952 when he single-handedly engaged and shot down four Soviet MiG fighter jets during an aerial battle.
Darrell Issa
A Republican Congressman from California's 50th district who campaigned for Williams' recognition and praised him as "an American hero for all time."
What they’re saying
“My friend, constituent, and hero Royce Williams is 100 years young, a Top Gun pilot like no other, and an American hero for all time. The heroism and valor he demonstrated for more than 35 harrowing minutes almost 70 years ago in the skies over the North Pacific and the coast of North Korea unquestionably saved the lives of his fellow pilots, shipmates, and crew. His story is one for the ages and it now has its rightful chapter as Royce receives the Medal of Honor.”
— Darrell Issa, U.S. Representative (Patch.com)
What’s next
Williams, who is 100 years old, will formally receive the Congressional Medal of Honor at a ceremony in the coming weeks.
The takeaway
The belated recognition of Royce Williams' heroic actions during the Korean War serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by American service members, even in conflicts that have faded from public memory. This story underscores the importance of properly honoring our nation's veterans, no matter how much time has passed.
