Burlin J. Keen

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a pilot of jet aircraft while attached to Attack Squadron FIFTY TWO embarked in USS KITTY HAWK (CVA 63). In the darkness of early morning, Lieutenant Commander KEEN conducted a single plane all weather strike on Kep Airfield, North Vietnam. Demonstrating exceptional heroism, he pressed on with his mission to attack this heavily defended target. Disregarding thirteen surface-to-air missiles and a barrage of antiaircraft fire, he executed a highly successful bombing attack, resulting in two sustained fires. The mission was executed at night at extremely low level in the face of determined, intense and formidable enemy defenses and surface-to-air missiles. Lieutenant Commander KEEN’s exemplary courage, superb airmanship, and unwavering devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.