The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class L. B. Keith (ASN: 357144101), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Normandy, France, on 24 June 1944. Private First Class Keith took over command of his machine gun squad when his sergeant was killed and kept it in action until his supply of ammunition was exhausted. He then picked up a rifle and continued firing until killed by enemy fire, thereby achieving a victory in that sector and saving the lives of several other members of his squad. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.