Trump to Honor Centenarian Veteran in State of the Union Address
During a significant evening on February 24, 2026, President Trump celebrated the extraordinary achievements of E. Royce Williams, a 100-year-old veteran, by awarding him the Medal of Honor. This historic event occurred during the State of the Union address, marking the first time a president has conferred this prestigious military honor in such a setting.
E. Royce Williams: A Korean War Hero
E. Royce Williams, a retired Navy captain, made his mark in history during a secret mission in the Korean War. On a fateful day in 1952, while engaging in what would become the longest aerial dogfight in U.S. Navy history, Williams encountered seven Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets. The intense confrontation lasted approximately 30 minutes and involved extraordinary bravery.
A Remarkable Aerial Engagement
- Date of Engagement: 1952
- Location: Off the coast of the Korean Peninsula
- Opponents: 7 Soviet MiG-15 fighter jets
- Awards:
- Medal of Honor – February 24, 2026
- Navy Cross – Awarded three years prior
During this clash, Williams shot down four Soviet planes. Despite being under heavy fire, he successfully maneuvered his damaged aircraft back to an American carrier. His incredible skill and determination allowed him to land safely despite considering ejection under the harsh conditions of the North Pacific.
The Classifications and Silence
The details of this aerial engagement were classified for decades. Williams was instructed to keep the mission a secret, reflecting the political sensitivity of American-Soviet interactions during the Cold War. For many years, he shared his experiences with no one, including his wife. It wasn’t until after the collapse of the Soviet Union that the true story of his heroism became public.
Advocacy for Recognition
In recent years, Williams’ actions gained renewed attention, prompting Republican Representative Darrell Issa from California to advocate for the Medal of Honor. Lawmakers passed a measure allowing the medal to be awarded long after the act of valor, bypassing the traditional five-year limitation.
Recognition from the President
President Trump personally called Williams earlier in the month to inform him of the honor. The timing of this presentation is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, contextualizing their historic military engagements.
As Trump stated during the award ceremony, Williams is now receiving the recognition he has long deserved. His legacy serves as a testament to valor and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds.
