The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Armor) Richard C. Keehn (ASN: 0-2337830), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop A, 3d Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 8 November 1968. Captain Keehn distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as scout platoon leader on a combat operation. Upon flushing eight enemy from a hut, Captain Keehn’s wingman engaged the first three, which had jumped into a canal. As his wingman broke from the engagement he received fire from three more enemy. Without hesitation, Captain Keehn flew directly at the firing enemy. The enemy then broke and ran into a large bunker. Making repeated firing passes with his mini-gun directed into the bunker opening, he enlarged the aperture sufficiently to allow his observer to place a white phosphorus grenade inside, thus silencing them. Receiving heavy automatic weapons fire from the remaining insurgents who had sneaked out the rear of the hut, he courageously held his position, and placed heavy mini-gun fire on them, killing one. Having expended ammunition, he refused to break off the target, and chased the remaining enemy through the banana palms until Captain Keehn’s observer was able to bring him down with his rifle. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.