Congressman Pfluger Honors Medal of Honor Recipient at the Capitol

WASHINGTON, DC — At this week's State of the Union, President Trump recognized and presented Navy Captain E. Royce Williams, Ret., with a Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award for valor. Following this remarkable moment, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) met with and honored Captain Williams at the United States Capitol.

Captain Williams is a veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, whose distinct, extraordinary heroism unfolded in the skies over the Sea of Japan on November 18, 1952. His indomitable courage under fire and heroism for the ages in one of the most remarkable air combat engagements in history remained classified for more than half a century. 

Flying from USS Oriskany and outnumbered in the skies over North Korea, he chose to engage to protect the ships of Task Force 77 and the Sailors aboard them. In a 35-minute dogfight, he shot down three MiG-15s and severely damaged a fourth one. His plane was said to have taken about 260 bullets. 

During their meeting, Congressman Pfluger and Captain Williams exchanged challenge coins. Though they served in different branches, both men protected America's skies as pilots in defense of freedom. 

As a former fighter pilot and Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, Ret., meeting a true American hero like Captain Williams was a deeply personal honor to Rep. Pfluger, and a reminder of the enduring bond between military aviators, information from Pfluger's office stated. 

"Captain E. Royce Williams represents the very best of our nation," said Rep. Pfluger. "Witnessing President Trump award him the Congressional Medal of Honor and then meeting him face to face was a humbling honor I will remember forever. His patriotism, courage, and humility remind us what it means to be an American and the importance of honoring those who have put everything on the line for our freedom. It's heroes like Captain Williams who inspire future generations of Americans to serve our great country."