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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Captain William Vincent Keenan, Jr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 Tactical Fighter Pilot of the 352d Tactical Fighter Squadron, Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam, in action near Duc Nuc, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 23 January 1970. On that date, Captain Keenan was scrambled from the alert facility at Phan Rang Air Base in response to an urgent request for tactical air support against an opposing armed force. Due to the tactical situation, he was required to use a constant attack heading against heavy antiaircraft ground fire. Despite the hazardous conditions of poor visibility at night against hostile ground fire, Captain Keenan delivered his ordnance with devastating accuracy. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Keenan reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    352d Tactical Fighter Squadron

    Division:

    Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam

    Action Date:

    April 10, 1970
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-2986 (March 10, 1970)

    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.