William Williams (VC)

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See William Charles Williams for the Battle of Gallipoli Victoria Cross recipient.

Photo submitted by Simon Manchee

William Williams VC, DSM & Bar (5 October 1890-22 October 1965), was a Welsh recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

He was 26 years old, and a seaman in the Royal Naval Reserve during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 7 June 1917 HMS Pargust (one of the Q ships) was out in the Atlantic when her engine room was damaged by a torpedo fired from a U-boat. The explosion when Pargust was torpedoed loosened the gun covers and Seaman Williams with great presence of mind took the whole weight on himself and physically prevented the covers from falling and betraying the ship to the enemy.

The 'Panic party' went away and the U-boat surfaced, thinking that Pargust was a merchant vessel. When the U-boat was about 50 yards (46 m) away, the Commander of Pargust gave the order to fire and the submarine blew up and sank.

The crew conducted a ballot to see which of them would be awarded the medal, as they were all deemed to have taken part equally in the action.