The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Billy Joe Ellis, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Ellis distinguished himself as Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, and as Vice Commander, NINTH Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, from 1 August 1977 to 31 July 1981. During this period, General Ellis’ exceptional professional capability, exemplary leadership, and devotion to duty were instrumental in the resolution of many complex tactical airpower problems. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Ellis culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.




