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 Robert Duane Beckel, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as an F-100 Fighter Pilot with the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron, PACIFIC Air Forces, in action near Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, on 24 January 1968. On that date, Captain Beckel was scrambled to strike a hostile artillery position shelling Khe Sanh. Despite marginal lighting, poor visibility, a highly restrictive run-in heading and extremely heavy anti-aircraft fire, he delivered his ordnance with complete disregard for his own personal safety, precisely on the hostile position completely destroying it. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Beckel has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.