William Williams (VC)

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

Related Topics:
William Charles Williams - Battle of Gallipoli

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William Williams (VC, DSM & Bar) 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.

Related Topics:
VC - DSM - Welsh - British - Commonwealth

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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.

Related Topics:
Seaman - Royal Naval Reserve - First World War

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

Related Topics:
7 June - 1917 - HMS ''Pargust'' - Q ship - Atlantic

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Awarded by ballot. See also Ronald Niel Stuart.

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