The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Joseph Thomas McKeon (ASN: 0-428402), United States Army Air Forces, for heroism while participating in aerial flight and outstanding accomplishment in the face of great danger above and beyond the line of duty during the period 24 September to 14 December 1943, while serving as a P-38 Fighter Pilot of the 433d Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the Pacific Theater of Operations. These operations consisted of over fifty (50) missions including escorting bombers and transport aircraft, interception and attack missions, and patrol and reconnaissance flights. In the course of these operations, strafing and bombing attacks were made from dangerously low altitudes, destroying and damaging enemy installations and equipment. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Joseph Thomas McKeon (ASN: 0-428402), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a P-38 Fighter Pilot of the 433d Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.