On November 18, 1952, during the Korean War, Lieutenant Elmer Royce Williams launched from the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany as part of Fighter Squadron 781, flying an F9F Panther on combat air patrol over the northeastern coast of North Korea.

What followed would become one of the longest and most extraordinary dogfights in U.S. military history.

Intercepting seven Soviet-built MiG-15s, Williams suddenly found himself vastly outnumbered after two pilots were redirected to defend Task Force 77. With only his wingman remaining—and eventually completely alone—he engaged anyway.

In a 35-minute aerial battle, Williams shot down three MiG-15s, severely damaged a fourth, and continued fighting even after his jet was struck by a 37mm cannon round. Out of ammunition, low on fuel, and flying a badly damaged aircraft, he escaped through cloud cover and somehow landed safely back aboard Oriskany—despite briefly being fired upon by friendly forces who didn’t realize he was American.

His actions likely saved hundreds of sailors.

Originally awarded the Silver Star, his recognition was later upgraded to the Navy Cross in 2023—and finally to the Medal of Honor in 2026.

For decades, the full story remained quiet due to Cold War tensions involving Soviet pilots. Today, it stands as one of the greatest air combat feats in American history.

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