Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Kenneth
S.
Collins

Born:

Leavenworth

, 

Kansas

Home:

Leavenworth

, 

Kansas

Kenneth Collins attended Park University in Kansas, and joined the Naval Air Reserves. During the summer of 1950, he applied for the Air Force pilot’s training, earning his wings and a commission in February 1952. During the Korean War he flew 118 combat missions, was credited with destroying four enemy MiGs in aerial combat, and earned a Silver Star. In 1963, he resigned from the Air Force and contracted with the Central Intelligence Agency to fly the A-12 reconnaissance plane at Area 51. At Area 51, he played a significant role in developing the CIAÕs stealth-designed Mach 3 aircraft into the highest flying and fastest manned, air breathing plane ever.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron

    Division:

    Far East Air Forces

    Action Date:

    Korean War
    Headquarters, Far East Air Forces, General Orders No. 221 (May 6, 1953)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Kenneth S. Collins (AFSN: A0-2222924), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of an RF-80 Reconnaissance Aircraft of the 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, FAR EAST Air Forces, in aerial operations in the Korea, in 1953. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Collins, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.