The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Kevin J. Cheney (AFSN: FV-3226626), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-4E Weapon Systems Officer of the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action over Southeast Asia on 26 May 1971. On that date, Lieutenant Cheney flew number two in a flight of two F-4E fighter-bomber aircraft against a highly lucrative target of concentrated hostile ground forces who were engaged in an offensive operation against friendly troops. Despite mountainous terrain, adverse weather and intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Cheney made multiple passes over the target destroying the hostile emplacements thus insuring the survivability of the friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Cheney reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.