A South Dakota native received long‑delayed national recognition during Tuesday night’s State of the Union address. President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to 100‑year‑old retired Navy pilot Royce Williams, honoring a military career that spanned World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Williams flew more than 220 combat missions, but he’s best known for a 1952 Korean War dogfight believed to be the longest in history. He single‑handedly engaged several Soviet fighter jets—considered superior aircraft at the time—and shot down four before returning to his carrier in a heavily damaged plane. Williams was ordered to keep the mission classified and stayed silent for more than 50 years.
South Dakota’s congressional delegation praised the recognition. Senator John Thune highlighted Williams’ legacy on the Senate floor, noting the state’s history of distinguished naval aviators. Senator Mike Rounds, who spent years advocating for the honor, called Williams “a true American hero.”
Rounds and Thune co‑sponsored legislation to waive a statutory deadline so Williams could receive the Medal of Honor.
