CAMERON, Flight Sergeant Keith MacKenzie (17424) - Queen's Commendation for Valuable Services in the Air - Awarded as per AFRO 194/60. Born in Vancouver; enlisted 1948 as aircraft controller. Served in 2 (F) Wing, Grostenquin, France.
Flight Sergeant Cameron was a passenger in a T-33 jet aircraft carrying out a cross-country flight at 37,000 feet on 11 October 1959. The eyesight of the pilot became very seriously impaired and Flight Sergeant Cameron, a ground controlled approach controller with limited civilian flying experience, took over the control of the aircraft for approximately fifteen minutes during which time he "homed" on a radio beacon, descended through cloud, performed aircraft circles, worked the radio and expressed a willingness to land the aircraft. By this time the pilot had regained his eyesight sufficiently to land but Flight Sergeant Cameron provided considerable aid during the approach and landing operation. His resourcefulness and skill saved a valuable aircraft and possibly prevented loss of life.