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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Kenneth D. Waits (AFSN: FR-60462), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Director of Reconnaissance, Headquarters, United States Air Forces in Europe, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and as Vice Commander, 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, Zweilbrucken Air Base, Germany, from 18 August 1975 to 20 June 1979. In these important assignments, Colonel Waits’ leadership, vision, unsurpassed professional expertise, and unflagging devotion to duty resulted in extraordinary advancement in the effectiveness of United States Air Forces in Europe reconnaissance and significantly improved its operability with North Atlantic Treaty Organization reconnaissance/attack forces. The superior initiative, outstanding leadership, and professional endeavor displayed by Colonel Waits reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Regiment:

    460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing

    Action Date:

    February 20, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-803 (June 7, 1967)

    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 Major Kenneth D. Waits (AFSN: FR-60462), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Aircraft Commander of a RF-4C over North Vietnam on 20 February 1967. On that date, Major Waits was tasked to fly a day low altitude photographic and visual reconnaissance post strike mission in Mu Gia Pass. Although subjected to intense automatic weapons and 37 and 57 millimeter ground fire, Major Waits was successful in completing his mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Waits reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.