Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel

Unit:

1st Battalion, 21st Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division "Fighting Third", U.S. Marine Corps

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam Marianas Islands from 22 to 26 July 1944. Repeatedly moving along his lines at great risk to his own life, Lieutenant Colonel Williams inspired his men to maintain their positions on the beachhead against repeated enemy night attacks and heavy hostile mortar and artillery fire which resulted in the loss of one third of the Battalion combat strength. When a determined hostile counter attack in force broke through the center of his Battalion on the night of 25 July, wiping out the remnants of one company and attacking the Battalion Command post and mortar platoon, he maintained control over his remaining front line company to wipe out all Japanese forces within his position and to restore his lines with great loss to the enemy. His leadership and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."