Congressman Issa Issues Statement After Navy Cross Upgrade
Congressman Darrell Issa released a statement regarding the upcoming upgrade to the Navy Cross for Navy Captain E. Royce William, California. Williams will be recognized for his 7-on-1 battle in 1952, when he flew his F9F-5 Panther alone against a group of Soviet MiG-15s. After years without recognition, William's previously received Silver Star will be upgraded to the Navy Cross. Williams came away the victor, shooting down 4 before excaping with a 37-mm hole in his fuselage. With his battered aircraft, Williams still managed to bring her home and nail his carrier landing. His Panther, with 263 holes riddling its surface, was tossed into the sea.