The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Colonel Richard P. Keirn (AFSN: AO-936812), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Director and as Director of Operational Services, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Headquarters NINTH Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, from 23 April 1975 to 30 June 1976. During this period, the exceptional professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts of Colonel Keirn contributed significantly to the combat effectiveness of tactical forces assigned to NINTH Air Force. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Keirn culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country, and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.