The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Airman First Class Leroy W. Kelsay, Jr., United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force over North Vietnam as a Paramedical Technician on an HH-3C helicopter on 19 February 1966. On that date, demonstrating on extraordinary degree of courage, together with a complete disregard for the dangers to which he would be exposed, Airman Kelsay proceeded to a hostile area well known for its heavy and accurate anti-aircraft defenses in search of a downed USAF pilot. With grim determination and acutely conscious of the grave importance of his mission, Airman Kelsay braved heavy ground fire, which damaged the aircraft, to assist in the successful hoist pickup of the downed airman. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Kelsay has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.