Elmer Royce Williams, a legendary Korean War veteran, marked his 100th birthday by calling for Korean unity and warning the world of the dangers of nuclear weapons. He told The Korea Daily that if given the chance, he would fight again to defend freedom in the U.S., South Korea, and beyond.
Williams made history as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot who single-handedly took on seven Soviet MiG jets in a 35-minute aerial battle during the Korean War—shooting down four and surviving. Experts have called it one of the most remarkable dogfights in aviation history. For his actions, he received the Navy Cross, Silver Star, and, in 2023, South Korea’s Order of Military Merit, Taeguk Medal.
From South Dakota skies to Korean airspace
Born in the small town of Wilmot, South Dakota, during the Great Depression, Williams fell in love with aviation at age four after riding in a plane with his grandmother. Inspired by the Pearl Harbor attack, he joined the Navy with his brother during World War II.
After earning a degree and qualifying as a Navy pilot, Williams joined more than 70 missions in Korea. He vividly remembers his first operation: dropping six bombs on North Korean targets. He said he felt no fear—only duty, confidence from training, and a belief in defending the freedom of South Korea.
A stark warning on division and nuclear weapons
Speaking with clarity at 100, the Korean War veteran stressed that the peninsula remains under a ceasefire—not a peace treaty—and warned that the division between North and South Korea must end. “After 5,000 years together and 70 years apart, we must move forward as one nation,” he said.
He condemned the threat of nuclear arms, stating that while ideological conflict is sometimes unavoidable, “nuclear weapons endanger not just Korea, but the entire planet.”
Legacy, leadership, and a message to youth
At a celebration held at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, over 300 fellow veterans honored Williams. He reflected on what might have been, joking that had he not joined the Navy, he would have become a park ranger in Yosemite, spending his life hiking and fishing.
His most cherished memory? His wife, who raised their three sons and stood by him for a lifetime.
In closing, Williams urged young people to live with a long-term vision. Quoting President John F. Kennedy, he said, “Ask what you can do for your country.” He added that without challenge, there can be no achievement.
BY SENA PARK
