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 William M. McKey, Jr. (ASN: US-56095539), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Company, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 11 March 1952, Company F dispatched a five man patrol into enemy territory in the vicinity of Kang So-Ri, Korea, with a mission of destroying enemy bunkers in front of the friendly main line of resistance. Although a medical aidman is not normally assigned to a patrol of this size, Private McKey, platoon aidman, volunteered to accompany the patrol in order that it would have medical assistance available in the event of an emergency. The patrol had successfully destroyed two hostile bunkers and was advancing towards a third when Private McKey stepped on a hidden mine and was seriously injured. Although bleeding profusely from the numerous wounds, he calmly and courageously directed those about him in rendering first aid until he lapsed into unconsciousness and succumbed to the fatal wounds. The conspicuous gallantry displayed by Private McKey in voluntarily accompanying his comrades on this dangerous mission reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.