AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  RC-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Technical Sergeant Kenneth E. Keister for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a RC-47 Flight Mechanic over the Republic of Vietnam from 28 July 1966 to 9 August 1966. During this period Sergeant Keister flew long and arduous missions over hostile areas and under adverse terrain and weather conditions in support of "Operation Hastings". Through selfless application of his outstanding professional skill, ingenuity and perseverance, Sergeant Keister was instrumental in the fulfillment of complex and urgent aerial reconnaissance requirements in Southeast Asia. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Keister reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.