THE WALL OF FACES

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

If anyone has a photo of James Williams, it would be good to see the face of this hero.

James Williams
Date of birth: September 22, 1946
Date of death: DOW: August 4, 1967
Place of Birth: Oklahoma, Oklahoma City
Home of record: Oklahoma City Oklahoma
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James Williams (MCSN: 2088210), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with the First Platoon, Company M, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in Vietnam on 21 July 1967. Sergeant Williams was engaged as a member of a company search and destroy operation northwest of the Khe Sanh Combat Base. As the company approached one of its objectives. It came under heavy arms and automatic weapons fire from an enemy force in well-fortified positions. Although his squad immediately sustained casualties from the intense fire, he aggressively maneuvered against the enemy in an attempt to gain fire superiority. Repeatedly exposing himself to draw enemy fire, he provided his men with targets. After receiving the order to withdraw his squad over the 100 meters of fire swept terrain, Sergeant Williams skillfully accomplished the mission although several casualties were sustained. Upon arrival at his new position, he discovered that one Marine was missing. Without hesitation, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he raced back to his formerly occupied position, and, locating the wounded Marine, carried him to safety by once more braving the withering enemy fire. Continuing to expose himself to the enemy fire, he directed the consolidation of his position and the evacuation of casualties until he fell mortally wounded. Sergeant Williams' dynamic leadership, devotion to duty, outstanding professional skill and courageous actions in the face of overwhelming odds inspired all who observed him and contributed directly to the success of his unit. His valiant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Action Date: July 21, 1967

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Sergeant

Company: Company M

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 26th Marines

Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Dear SGT James Williams, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter

*WILLIAMS, JAMES (KIA)brSynopsis:brThe President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James Williams (2088210), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 4, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Williams upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.brHome Town: Oklahoma City, Oklahomabrbr