History & Details - 1952 Act of Valor
On November 18, 1952, Captain Williams piloted his F9F-5 Panther from the USS Oriskany and flew into a snowstorm above the Sea of Japan and off the coast of North Korea. Once there, Williams and his wingmen were engaged by seven Soviet MiG-15s. Royce’s wingmen were forced to retire from the fight, leaving him alone. During the dogfight, credited as the longest in U.S. history, Williams downed at least four MiGs through cunning air maneuvers and steadfast tactical decision-making. The other Soviet jets fled.
Royce’s aircraft sustained hits from more than 260 rounds and several larger holes from 37mm cannon fire, one of which hit his cockpit. Six inches to the right or left would have meant certain death. Royce returned to the Oriskany – out of fuel and ammunition – and landed at nearly twice the safe speed. Through his actions, Williams ensured the safety of his ship and shipmates.
For more than 50 years, Royce’s heroism was classified. His aircraft’s gun-cam footage, confiscated by the NSA, was lost. One by one, contemporary eyewitnesses passed away during this half-century of secrecy, and unique national security circumstances have prevented a consideration faithful to what we know today of this historic mission. Although he was awarded the Silver Star – later upgraded to the Navy Cross – Williams deserves due recognition for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life. By facing multiple Soviet jets on his own, Royce went above and beyond the call of duty.