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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Keith D. Heiniger (AFSN: FV-3020648), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while acting as a Forward Air Controller with the 37th Tactical Fighter Wing, in action over North Vietnam on 28 July 1967. On that date, Major Heiniger controlled multiple air strikes against a hostile convoy heavily defended by anti-aircraft artillery. Despite low cloud conditions and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Heiniger repeatedly flew through withering barrages of anti-aircraft artillery fire to deliver his marking rockets on target. On four separate marking passes Major Heiniger accurately marked the target thereby enabling strike fighters to completely destroy the target. By his gallantry and selfless devotion to duty, Major Heiniger has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    August 12, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-551 (February 20, 1968)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Major Keith D. Heiniger (AFSN: FV-3020648), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 Forward Air Controller over North Vietnam on 12 August 1967. On that date, while directing fighter operations against a hostile anti-aircraft site, Major Heiniger repeatedly dove his aircraft through intense barrages of flak to mark the target for each of several flights of tactical fighters. With complete disregard for his own safety, he maneuvered his aircraft under a low ceiling to provide ordnance impact corrections and was thus instrumental in destroying the site which was a severe threat to friendly aircraft operating in the area. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Heiniger reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.