Heroic River Patrol Battle

BM1 James E. Williams was serving as Boat Captain and Patrol Officer aboard River Patrol Boat (PBR) 105, accompanied by another patrol boat, when their patrol came under sudden fire from two enemy sampans. Reacting immediately, BM1 Williams ordered his crew to return fire, successfully killing the crew of one sampan and forcing the other to retreat into a nearby river inlet.

As the U.S. patrol pursued the fleeing sampan, they encountered a heavy barrage of small-arms fire from enemy forces positioned at close range along the riverbank. Despite the intense and concealed enemy fire, BM1 Williams maneuvered his patrol boats through the ambush and faced a significantly larger enemy force. This force included two enemy junks, eight sampans, and heavy automatic weapons fire from the shore.

Amidst the fierce battle, BM1 Williams displayed extraordinary bravery, exposing himself to the enemy’s relentless fire to direct his patrol's counterattack and inspire his men. Realizing the overwhelming strength of the enemy, he tactically deployed his patrol to hold their position and await armed helicopter support. During this maneuver, he discovered an even larger concentration of enemy vessels.

Demonstrating exceptional initiative, BM1 Williams chose not to wait for air support. Instead, he boldly led his patrol through the intense enemy fire, successfully damaging or destroying 50 enemy sampans and 7 junks. Once the armed helicopters arrived, he directed their firepower to continue the assault on the remaining enemy forces.

As darkness fell, BM1 Williams made a calculated decision to turn on the patrol boats' searchlights, fully aware it would make them more visible targets. This bold move allowed the patrol to illuminate the area and press the attack, bringing the fight closer to the enemy positions onshore. Despite a dwindling ammunition supply, the patrol, under Williams’s leadership, successfully routed the enemy forces.

Over the course of the three-hour battle, BM1 Williams exhibited exceptional professional skill and indomitable courage. His leadership was instrumental in the destruction or capture of 65 enemy boats and inflicted significant casualties on enemy personnel. For his heroic actions and unparalleled bravery, BM1 James E. Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor.