The life of Stanley Richard Williams Jr., a World War II veteran and renowned poet, will be commemorated on May 11, 2023, the day he would have turned 100. Williams, who passed away on January 25, had a multifaceted life, earning recognition not only for his military service but also for his contributions to the arts and community.
A Journey Through War and Peace
Born in West Virginia, Williams moved to southern California during his final year of high school. At just 17, he enlisted in the Navy, training as a signalman thanks to his proficiency in Morse Code and semaphore acquired during his time as a Boy Scout. He served aboard a U.S. Landing Craft Infantry ship, designated LCI (M) 352, during pivotal battles in the Pacific Theater, including Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
Williams faced harrowing experiences, surviving multiple typhoons and six Kamikaze attacks. In a recorded interview with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, he described the intensity of his missions and the constant danger they faced. “We were always in harm’s fire,” he recalled, illustrating the reality of naval warfare. Despite the trauma, Williams opted not to dwell on his combat experiences, stating, “I hate war… I walked out and forgot the war,” after his discharge on June 7, 1946.
From Soldier to Scholar and Artist
After the war, Williams took advantage of the GI Bill, earning an English degree from Long Beach State College. He initially aspired to become a teacher but shifted his focus due to family circumstances. An accomplished bowler, he transitioned from professional competition to coaching and managing bowling centers. His expertise as a ball driller earned him recognition in the bowling community, where he was regarded as a perfectionist.
Williams’s passion for the outdoors also led him to become a Scoutmaster, where he organized youth camps and backcountry excursions for L.A. County Parks and Recreation. While he was a private individual and not inclined to share war stories, he eventually joined local veterans’ organizations after moving to Aurora in 1990. His participation in events like Honor Flight Chicago allowed him to connect with fellow veterans, where he was described as a “deep thinker who has seen everything.”
Despite facing challenges later in life, including hearing loss from concussions and legal blindness due to macular degeneration, Williams turned to writing. He authored more than 3,000 poems and published four books, earning the title of poet laureate for Honor Flight Chicago. His literary talents resonated with many, and his weekly contributions to community newspapers brought joy to readers.
“Dick was an amazing man with a lot of stories and experiences,” said Mike Eckburg, longtime commander of Roosevelt-Aurora American Legion Post 84. “He was a genius with facts,” he added, acknowledging Williams’s ability to engage on various topics, including his admiration for historical figures like Abraham Lincoln.
A Lasting Legacy
Christine Williams, Richard’s wife of 45 years, reflected on her husband’s complex character and his deep patriotism. “He was a character… he won my heart,” she shared. Despite his reluctance to discuss his military past, he cherished sharing the adventures of his life beyond the battlefield.
A memorial service will take place on May 11 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the Williams home in Plainfield. “Richard lived ten times in his lifetime with all he did,” Christine remarked. “He was a remarkable man.” Williams’s legacy as a veteran, poet, and community figure will endure, reminding those who knew him of a life richly lived and deeply felt.
