Escondido Honors 101-Year-Old Korean War Veteran with Medal of Honor

Captain Royce E. Williams recognized for heroic actions in 1952 dog fight with Soviet MiGs

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:23pm

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A warm, nostalgic painting depicting the entrance to a city hall building, with an American flag draped over the doorway and the building bathed in soft, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of civic pride and reverence for military service.The city of Escondido honors a 101-year-old Korean War veteran with the nation's highest military decoration.Escondido Today

The city of Escondido, California celebrated the 101st birthday of Captain Royce E. Williams, a Korean War veteran who was recently awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military honor, for his extraordinary heroism during a 1952 dogfight with Soviet MiG fighters in the Sea of Japan. The celebration included patriotic performances, proclamations from local officials, and the unveiling of a plaque honoring Williams' service.

Why it matters

Williams' actions during the 1952 dogfight were declassified only 10 years ago, finally allowing the public to learn about his heroism. The ceremony in Escondido recognizes Williams' lifetime of service and sacrifice, and serves as an important moment to honor the city's veterans and their contributions to the country.

The details

On November 18, 1952, Williams was flying an F9F-5 Panther when he encountered seven Soviet MiG fighters. Despite being outnumbered, Williams singlehandedly shot down four of the MiGs before safely landing his damaged aircraft back on the aircraft carrier. Williams has since received numerous awards, including the Silver Star and Navy Cross, and in February 2026 was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration.

  • Captain Williams turned 101 years old on April 4, 2026.
  • The city council meeting and celebration took place on April 1, 2026, just days before Williams' birthday.

The players

Royce E. Williams

A 101-year-old Korean War veteran who was recently awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in a 1952 dogfight with Soviet MiG fighters.

Dane White

The Mayor of Escondido, California who presented a proclamation honoring Williams.

John Franklin

The Mayor of Vista, California who also presented a proclamation for Williams.

Adrienne Cisneros-Selekman

A representative from Supervisor Jim Desmond's office who presented a proclamation.

Saundra Cima

A board member with Honor Flight San Diego who escorted Williams into City Hall.

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What they’re saying

“We must honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of our veterans like Captain Williams. His heroism during the Korean War is an inspiration to us all.”

— Dane White, Mayor of Escondido

What’s next

The city of Escondido plans to install a permanent plaque honoring Captain Williams on the Escondido Giving Arch in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This ceremony in Escondido serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing our nation's veterans, even decades after their service. Captain Williams' heroic actions, only recently declassified, deserve this long-overdue public celebration and honor.