Williams, Elmer Royce. Interview November 8th, 2024

Elmer Royce Williams is a retired United States naval aviator, nationally lauded for his solo dogfight against seven Soviet pilots during the Korean War. Since his time in service, he has been increasingly recognized for his achievements. He was awarded the Navy Cross in 2023 and has been nominated for the Medal of Honor. In his 2024 interview, Williams described that transformative moment in his life and how it affected the Korean War. He also discussed his childhood, military enlistment, and military training. Approaching 100 years old at the time, Williams reflected on how religion, family, community, civilian work, and veterans' organizations shaped his life after service.

2024-11-08

California State University San Marcos University Library

Elmer Royce Williams

video

SC027-074

Oral Histories

Community history, San Diego Veterans History Initiative, Veteran experience

Elmer Royce Williams, “Williams, Elmer Royce. Interview November 8th, 2024,” Voices of North County, accessed December 11, 2025, https://archivesoralhistories.csusm.edu/items/show/527.