William Williams (VC)

For the Battle of Gallipoli Victoria Cross recipient, see William Charles Williams.
William Williams
Born 5 October 1890
Amlwch, Anglesey, Wales
Died 22 October 1965 (aged 75)
Holyhead, Anglesey, Wales
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch  Royal Navy
Rank Seaman
Unit Royal Naval Reserve
Battles/wars World War I
Awards

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 a member of the British and Commonwealth armed forces.

He was from Amlwch on Anglesey and at age 26 was serving as a seaman in the Royal Naval Reserve during the First World War when the following deed took place:

The Pargust's 'panic party', the decoy crew carried on every Q ship for the purpose of leaving it apparently abandoned when attacked, took to the lifeboats and the U-boat then surfaced, believing the Pargust to be a crewless and defenceless merchant vessel. When the U-boat was about 50 yards (46 m) away, the captain of HMS Pargust gave the order to fire and the submarine was blown up and sank.

In the case of a gallant and daring act in which all men are deemed equally brave and deserving of the Victoria Cross a secret ballot is drawn. The crew of HMS Pargust selected William Williams to be the recipient of the award due to a rating in the action.

Honours and awards

Photographs

William Williams VC - Memorial Plaque

See also

References

  1. The London Gazette: (Supplement) no. 29997. p. 2952. 23 March 1917. Retrieved 2008-11-08.
  2. The London Gazette: (Supplement) no. 30194. p. 7424. 20 July 1917. Retrieved 2008-11-08.

External links