The Office of the Governor of the State of South Dakota
03/25/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/25/2026 11:23
Gov. Rhoden Honors Medal of Honor Recipient Captain Williams
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2026
Contact: Josie Harms
Gov. Rhoden Honors Medal of Honor Recipient Captain Williams
PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden honored Medal of Honor recipient Captain Royce Williams.
"The freedoms we enjoy today are not free - they are bought with a price and defended by brave Americans like Captain Williams who are willing to risk everything for their country," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "Captain William's heroism is an inspiration to us all - he has left a lasting impact on generations of Americans."
In the State of the Union Address, President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to South Dakota native Captain Williams. While serving as a naval aviator during the Korean War, Captain Williams took unprecedented action, engaging in what is believed to be the longest dogfight in U.S. Navy history. Until recently, his heroism went largely unrecognized.
Governor Rhoden unveiled a plaque of Captain Williams, which will be added to the South Dakota State Capitol's "Hall of Honor." You can find a photo from the ceremony here.
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