The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ralph P. Kehoe (ASN: 0-1926884), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. During the early morning hours of 24 June 1953, in the vicinity of Chat-Kol, Korea, Company K positions on the main line of resistance received an intense mortar and artillery barrage preparatory to a large enemy infantry assault. Lieutenant Kehoe, a platoon leader, immediately left the comparative safety of the command post and moved into the trenches, despite the intense concentration. Moving from man to man, he checked all positions and redeployed the men to achieve maximum firepower and effectiveness. When the enemy troops reached the trenchlines, he courageously organized his men and aggressively met the foe in hand-to-hand combat. His brave actions and complete disregard for his safety inspired his men to fight still harder and to decisively repel the attackers. Although wounded in the battle, Lieutenant Kehoe refused medical attention until all casualties had been treated and evacuated. Lieutenant Kehoe’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.