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 Sergeant Kenneth L. Copeland, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 8th Aerial Port Squadron, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, in action at a landing zone in Northern Cambodia from 23 June 1970 to 25 June 1970. On these dates, Sergeant Copeland was directing the unloading of three thousand Cambodian refugees, men, women and children, when the airfield came under intense hostile rocket, mortar and ground attack. As hundreds of refugees rushed to board the three C-7A aircraft, Sergeant Copeland rushed directly into the target area and halted the terrified refugees, thus enabling the helpless cargo aircraft to depart and escape damage and destruction. Remaining in the open and exposing himself to the incoming rocket and mortar attack he ran some two-hundred yards across an open field to aid his team in defending their position against the hostile forces. Attacks continued throughout the night and Sergeant Copeland’s directions enabled air strikes by Friendly Forces to subdue the hostile attack. His courageous action had saved the lives of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam Rangers and the 200-300 civilian men, women and children who were waiting to evacuate. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Copeland has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.