James M. Williams

James M. Williams James M. (Jim) Williams of Austin, a 37-year resident of Austin and a decorated World War II fighter pilot, died on May 10, 2004, at the age of 86. Mr. Williams was born May 4, 1918, in Georgetown, Texas., where he attended local schools. At age 22, as a senior at Sam Houston State College, he applied and was accepted to the U.S. Aviation Cadet Program. Mr. Williams attended cadet training in Muskogee, Oklahoma; basic training in Brady, Texas; and advanced training at Kelly Air Base in San Antonio, Texas. On December 12, 1941 – five days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor – Mr. Williams received his pilot wings and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. His first assignment was patrolling the Panama Canal. After six months, he was reassigned to China where he became a fighter pilot in the famed “Flying Tigers” group under General Clair Chenault. As a pilot of P-40s and P-51s, he flew many missions against the Japanese. He was credited with six aerial victories and became squadron commander of the 76th Fighter Squadron. After World War II, Mr. Williams continued his Air Force career and served at many bases throughout the United States. One of his last assignments was as a military advisor to the Vietnam Air Force, during which time he flew missions in U.S. Navy A-1H aircraft. During his military career, Mr. Williams received a number of medals and decorations. He was most proud of receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Medal and the Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters. During his retirement, Mr. Williams enjoyed many years of golfing and visiting with his friends. He also enjoyed playing bridge, and at age 79 became a Life Master. He is survived by two daughters, Janice W. Bailey of Providence, Rhode Island, and Katherine A. Williams of Austin; and a granddaughter, Jennifer B. Piche of Houston. He also is survived by his dearest friend, Elaine McCarty, and by numerous nieces, nephews and other good friends. The family would like to thank the staff at Brighton Gardens for their loving care of Mr. Williams. Family visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 13, at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 14, at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home with Dr. Gordon Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Capital Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, the Red Cross or Meals on Wheels. Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78705 (512) 452-8811. You may view memorials online at wcfish.com