The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Ralph H. McKee (ASN: 0-234931), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Combat Command “B”, 6th Armored Division in France, on 7 August 1944. After a small group of officers and enlisted men had unsuccessfully tried to destroy an enemy observation post, he personally organized and led a small force that wiped out the post which had been a threat to the advancing combat command. He acted gallantly, with disregard for his own safety and when slightly wounded, ignored medical treatment. His courage and leadership were an inspiration to the other officers and men of the Combat Command.