Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Regiment:

    32d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    7th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 16, 1952

    Headquarters, EIGHTH U.S. Army, Korea, General Orders No. 658 (July 16, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Master Sergeant Billie F. Williams, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with an Infantry Company of the 32d Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Master Sergeant Williams distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, on 16 October 1953. On that date, Sergeant Williams was participating in an assault on a strategic enemy-held hill. When all of the officers in his company became casualties in the intense fighting, Sergeant Williams assumed command. Continually exposing himself to the heavy concentration of enemy fire, Sergeant Williams led the men in a spirited charge which was greatly responsible for the ultimate withdrawal of the enemy. When the objective had been secured, Sergeant Williams immediately set up an effective defense perimeter and deployed his force in the most advantageous positions to meet the anticipated counter-attacks. During the ensuing action Sergeant Williams was informed that an enemy force was organizing to the rear of his position. Rallying his men, Sergeant Williams led them in an assault on the enemy element and, through his leadership and skillful fire direction, the threat of an attack from the rear was neutralized. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Master Sergeant Williams on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.