20 of America’s Most Decorated War Heroes

James E. Williams

• Rank: Boatswain’s mate first class
• Military branch: Navy
• Served in: Korean War, Vietnam War
• Medal(s) of valor: Medal of Honor, Navy Cross, Silver Star

Williams was the most decorated enlisted man in the history of the Navy. On Oct. 31, 1966, two U.S. patrol boats were searching for Viet Cong when they encountered a fleet of enemy sampans, or small boats. In the ensuring fight, Williams led the attack that eventually destroyed more than 65 enemy boats.