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 Monroe King Matthews (ASN: 39133507), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, from 8 to 18 March 1944. When two men from a reconnaissance patrol were wounded by fire from heavily-fortified enemy positions, Private First Class Matthews unhesitatingly and despite warnings of the danger, rushed through a hail of hostile fire to the aid of the stricken men and proceeded to act as a litter bearer until he was fatally wounded. All of his actions during this period were characterized by his unselfish devotion to the welfare of his fellow soldiers. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Matthews, 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.