SD HC8012

Captain Royce Williams, raised near Wilmot, South Dakota, served as a U.S. Navy aviator flying F9F Panthers during the Korean War

On November 18, 1952, Williams engaged seven Soviet MiG-15s in a 35-minute dogfight—believed to be the longest in U.S. Navy history—shooting down four enemy aircraft and damaging two others before landing on the USS Oriskany

The incident remained classified until 1990 due to intercepted Soviet transmissions confirming the attack; Williams was ordered never to speak of the event during his career

In December 2025, the Secretary of the Navy recommended upgrading Williams' decoration to the Medal of Honor, with the President personally informing him of the intent to award the nation's highest military honor

The South Dakota Legislature formally recognizes Captain Williams for his exemplary military career and bravery in combat