Korean War veteran from South Dakota earns Navy Cross

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs Committees, announced South Dakota native and retired U.S. Navy Captain E. Royce Williams received the Navy Cross from the Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro this past Friday.

Rounds’ office worked with the Navy to properly recognize Williams with an upgrade of his previously-awarded Silver Star Medal, which he received for his service during the Korean War.

“Royce is a true American hero, and I am pleased he is finally receiving the Navy Cross,” said Rounds. “As the second-highest military decoration for sailors and Marines, it is truly reserved for those who displayed extraordinary heroism in combat with armed enemy forces. His distinguished actions over 70 years ago is a story for the ages. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than Royce, and I am grateful for his service to our nation.”

On Nov. 18, 1952, then-Lt. Williams led three F9F Panthers against seven Soviet MiG-15s, which according to the U.S. Naval Institute, were “superior to the F9F in almost every fashion.” His mission, which was the only direct overwater combat between U.S. Navy fighters and Soviet fighters during the Cold War, led to the protection of Task Force 77 from enemy attack. Williams’ heroic actions were classified due to rising tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union at the time.

Rounds’ office works to assist veterans and their families with lost or overdue military awards. The contact information for each office can be found at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/contact/office-locations.