President Trump to Award Medal of Honor to Two Military Heroes

President Trump is set to award the prestigious Medal of Honor to a retired Navy captain and a fallen soldier who displayed exceptional bravery. This momentous occasion recognizes their heroic acts, which have gone uncelebrated for decades and highlight stories of astonishing courage.

Michael Ollis: A Heroic Sacrifice

One of the honorees is Army Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, remembered for his ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan. In 2013, Ollis was stationed at a base when it fell under attack by a car bomb and insurgents donning suicide vests. Ollis selflessly shielded Polish Army Lt. Karol Cierpica from an approaching suicide bomber, resulting in his tragic death.

Ollis, a native of Staten Island, had previously been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 2019. General James McConville had hailed him as one of the heroes of his generation. His parents, Bob and Linda Ollis, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of their son’s courageous life and enduring legacy, noting their overwhelming pride and eternal gratitude.

E. Royce Williams: A Legendary Cold War Air Combat

The other recipient, Navy Capt. E. Royce Williams, now 100 years old, engaged in a legendary battle in 1952 that remained a secret for decades. During the Korean War, Williams faced off against Soviet MiG-15 jets in the longest dogfight recorded in U.S. military history.

In a rapid 35-minute confrontation off the Korean Peninsula, Williams downed four Soviet jets on his own after the Soviets began firing. Demonstrating fearless skill, Williams managed to return his damaged plane to an American aircraft carrier despite high-risk conditions.

Williams complied with orders to keep the U.S.-Soviet engagement secret for years, only speaking about this event after the collapse of the Soviet Union when the operation became public knowledge. Three years ago, he was awarded the Navy Cross for his valor.

Recognition and Overcoming Hurdles

Efforts to award Williams his long-awaited Medal of Honor gained momentum thanks to Republican Rep. Darrell Issa, representing California’s San Diego-area district, home to Williams. Congress eventually authorized the president to bestow this award, overcoming the usual five-year limit for Medal of Honor eligibility.

In a heartfelt statement, Rep. Issa described Williams as “richly deserving” of the medal, emphasizing the incredible bravery and valor demonstrated during the dogfight nearly 70 years ago that saved countless lives.