by Mike Matzinger
Congratulations to retired Navy Captain Royce Williams, an Eagle Scout and naval aviator, who received the Medal of Honor last night during the State of the Union address in recognition of his extraordinary heroism during the Korean War. In a 1952 air battle, Williams shot down four Russian MiG-15s in a 35-minute dogfight, an achievement unmatched at the time and still rare in the jet age. The engagement remained classified for decades, and Williams did not speak publicly about it until records were later declassified.
President Trump had informed Williams in advance by phone that he would receive the nation’s highest military honor. Now more than 100 years old, Williams expressed deep gratitude as the medal was presented during the annual address to Congress.
Legislation included in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act removed the statutory time limits that had previously prevented the award, clearing the way for the president to bestow the Medal of Honor during Williams’ lifetime.
A Scout is Brave. A Scout is Trustworthy. A Scout is Royce Williams.
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https://www.cbsnews.com/news/state-of-the-union-2026-trump-royce-williams-medal-of-honor