Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Colonel Ray Heath Coley (AFSN: 0-52943), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as Aircraft Commander of a C-130A Aircraft over Khe Sanh Airfield, Republic of Vietnam on 29 March 1968. On that date, Colonel Coley was engaged in an aerial delivery of emergency supplies to the beleaguered Marines. Despite adverse weather and intense hostile anti-aircraft fire that destroyed one of his engines, he aggressively continued his mission so that he positioned his aircraft precisely over the drop zone and delivered over thirty thousand pounds of vitally needed ordnance to the friendly forces below. This courageous and aggressive act contributed materially to the holding of this vital base. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Coley has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    January 26, 1973 – July 31, 1979

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Ray Heath Coley (AFSN: 0-52943), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Senior Air Force Advisor to the 440th Tactical Airlift Wing, Generally Billy Mitchell Field, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 26 January 1973 to 31 July 1979. During this period, Colonel Coley’s outstanding professional skill, knowledge and leadership aided immeasurably in identifying problem areas in the field of operations and in developing and implementing research projects capable of solving these problems. The singularly distinctive accomplishments to Colonel Coley culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.