World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. His mother received the award posthumously on his behalf in March 1946 at a ceremony in Harrison, Arkansas, for his actions as a US Navy pharmacist's mate third class, while attached to the 3rd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, US Marine Corps, on March 3, 1945, at the Battle of Iwo Jima, Japan. He enlisted as an apprentice seaman in the US Naval Reserve in June 1943 and following several stateside training assignments, he was ordered to Iwo Jima in February 1945. During the course of the battle a few weeks later, he was killed by an enemy sniper while administering aid to several wounded comrades on the front line. He was also awarded the Purple Heart. The US Navy guided missile frigate USS Jack Williams (FFG-24) was named in his honor. His Medal of Honor citation reads: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3rd Battalion 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division, during the occupation of Iwo Jima Volcano Islands, March 3, 1945. Gallantly going forward on the frontlines under intense enemy small-arms fire to assist a marine wounded in a fierce grenade battle, Williams dragged the man to a shallow depression and was kneeling, using his own body as a screen from the sustained fire as he administered first aid, when struck in the abdomen and groin 3 times by hostile rifle fire. Momentarily stunned, he quickly recovered and completed his ministration before applying battle dressings to his own multiple wounds. Unmindful of his own urgent need for medical attention, he remained in the perilous fire-swept area to care for another marine casualty. Heroically completing his task despite pain and profuse bleeding, he then endeavored to make his way to the rear in search of adequate aid for himself when struck down by a Japanese sniper bullet which caused his collapse. Succumbing later as a result of his self-sacrificing service to others, Williams, by his courageous determination, unwavering fortitude and valiant performance of duty, served as an inspiring example of heroism, in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."