AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  AC-130H

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Keith L. Nelson for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as AC-130H Fire Control Officer, 16th Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, 816th Expeditionary Special Operations Group, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component in southeastern Afghanistan on 21 May 2006. On that date, Captain Nelson and his AC-130H crew interdicted a column of enemy troops and provided close air support for a Special Operations assault on a series of enemy compounds. As lead Fire Control Officer in a two-ship formation, Captain Nelson expertly coordinated firing geometry for the formation, immediately identifying the enemy column, and led the interdiction by utilizing the Spectre's dual target attack capability, swiftly destroying the enemy combatants. With the assault commencing, Captain Nelson successfully interdicted numerous enemy troops and destroyed an entire enemy compound, neutralizing the anti-Coalition forces' ability to attack and regroup. Upon hearing helicopters approaching to recover Coalition ground forces, enemy reinforcements began to mass with intent to attack the helicopters. Captain Nelson led his Sensors Operators in identifying and destroying the reinforcements, reducing the risk to the helicopters. Captain Nelson demonstrated remarkable leadership and impeccable mission knowledge while expending all 80 105 millimeter and 192 40 millimeter rounds. He conducted 12 fire missions, destroying 6 enemy buildings, an arms cache, and killing at least 50 enemy troops, while protecting the lives of over 100 Special Operations Forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Nelson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.