NEIL L. KELTNER, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Keltner distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 November 1966 while commanding the security element of a large convoy near Long Binh. The convoy received intense fire from a lage Viet Cong force concealed on both sides of the highway. Lieutenant Keltner immediately moved to the head of the convoy where the danger was greatest, and led them beyond the fire. With all weapons firing, he returned to the killing zone, personally accounting for five insurgent casualties. He constantly directed appressive maneuvers of his platoon and the removal of damaged vehicles and wounded men from danger. When he received a hit which wounded him in the calf and thigh, and destroyed his communications, he ran through the intense fire to another vehicle to maintain radio contact with all defensive elements. Moving again to the head of the convoy, he called in medical evacuation helicopters and air strikes upon the hostile emplacements. Heedless of the inherent danger, Lieutenant Keltner calmly maintained order on the congested highway, held off the superior Viet Cong force until relief arrived, and prevented the destruction of the whole convoy. Lieutenant Keltner’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.