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 William Vincent Keenan, Jr., United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as an F-100 Tactical Fighter Pilot of the 352d Tactical Fighter Squadron, Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam, in action near Dak Seang, Republic of Vietnam, on 10 April 1970. On that date, Captain Keenan flew a fighter aircraft in support of friendly forces who were taking heavy casualties from a well-entrenched hostile force. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Keenan attacked the target despite the hazards of extremely marginal weather, intense hostile ground fire and mountainous terrain. His courage and superior skill under these most difficult conditions resulted in turning the tide of the battle and saving many friendly lives. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Keenan has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.