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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 with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant Keith Nathan Lacey, II (AFSN: FR-78757), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot with the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action in Southeast Asia on 16 August 1966. On that date, while under intense and accurate fire from unfriendly forces, Lieutenant Lacey demonstrated cool courage, undaunted determination, and superior skill in pressing home devastating air attacks against hostile positions. Persevering in the face of danger and death, he relentlessly and effectively aided in neutralizing the hostile forces. Lieutenant Lacey displayed outstanding heroism and devotion to duty and reflected 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:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    357th Tactical Fighter Squadron

    Division:

    Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand

    Action Date:

    August 18, 1966
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-1003 (November 15, 1966)

    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 First Lieutenant Keith Nathan Lacey, II (AFSN: FR-78757), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving as a Pilot with the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action in Southeast Asia, on 18 August 1966. On that date, with complete disregard for his personal safety, he led an attack on a surface-to-air missile launch site deep within hostile territory. His extraordinary courage and remarkable boldness in the face of intense antiaircraft fire and while under direct attack by eight surface-to-air missiles, resulted in the total destruction of the launch facility. By his gallantry in action and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Lacey has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.