South Dakota Native Royce Williams to Receive Medal of Honor

100-year-old retired Navy captain to be honored for secret Korean War dogfight

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Wilmot native and retired U.S. Navy Capt. E. Royce Williams, 100, will receive the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award, during a White House ceremony. Williams' recognition stems from a Korean War-era aerial battle in 1952 in which he fought seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets while flying an F9F Panther from the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany.

Why it matters

This long-classified incident involving a confrontation with Soviet pilots during the Korean War has remained a secret for decades. Williams' heroic actions are finally being recognized with the nation's highest military honor, shedding light on a little-known chapter of the conflict.

The details

In the November 1952 incident, Williams engaged in a dogfight with seven Soviet MiG-15 jets while flying a U.S. Navy F9F Panther. He was able to shoot down several of the Soviet planes before returning safely to his aircraft carrier. The details of the engagement were kept classified due to the involvement of Soviet pilots, and Williams' Silver Star was only recently upgraded to the Navy Cross in 2023 after the incident was declassified and reviewed.

  • On November 18, 1952, Williams engaged in the secret dogfight with Soviet MiG-15 jets.
  • In 2023, Williams' Silver Star was upgraded to the Navy Cross after the incident was declassified.
  • In 2026, President Donald Trump will award Williams the Medal of Honor at a White House ceremony.

The players

Royce Williams

A 100-year-old retired U.S. Navy captain from Wilmot, South Dakota, who will receive the Medal of Honor for his actions in a secret Korean War dogfight in 1952.

Mike Rounds

A U.S. Senator from South Dakota who has pursued Williams' case for years following the declassification of his combat files.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump will award the Medal of Honor to Royce Williams during a ceremony.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of recognizing the heroic actions of our nation's veterans, even decades after the events took place. Williams' story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in defense of our country.