The President of   the  United  States  takes  pleasure  in  presenting  the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to

for service as set forth in the following

                 CITATION:

                               "For heroism and extraordinary achievement  in aerial flight while  serving as a  Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364, Marine Aircraft Group Thirty-Six, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with opera- tions  against  the  enemy in  the  Republic of  Vietnam.  On  23 November 1968, Captain Keckler launched as Section Leader of a flight of  two CH-46  transport helicopters assigned  an emergency resupply mission in support of infantry units participating in Operation Meade River south of DaNang.  Aware that two other aircraft  had  been  badly  damaged  by  enemy  fire  while  attempting  the same mission,  he  nevertheless departed for Hill 55,  obtained  a load of supplies, and directed his helicopter to  the objective.  Arriving  over  the designated area  des- pite  deteriorating  weather  conditions,  he executed  an approach  and skillfully completed  the resupply mission.  Maintaining  a flight  pattern over the  Marine position,  he  inquired if there were any casualties in need of  medical evacuation and, upon receiving a negative reply, was preparing  to depart for his base  when the  CH-46  was  struck by  intensive  hostile  fire and sustained  extensive  battle damage.  Adeptly maneuvering his aircraft at a low altitude, he completed a safe landing at Hill 55, although  one engine had  failed during the  approach  to  the landing  zone.   Captain Keckler's courage, superb  aeronautical ability and  un- wavering  devotion to duty at great personal  risk inspired all who  observed him and were in  keeping with the  highest traditions of the Marine Corps and  of the United States Naval Service."