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 Staff Sergeant Kenneth C. McCready (ASN: 39207037), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 276th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 12 and 22 February 1945. When his attacking company encountered fortified enemy defensive positions on 12 February near Gaubiving, France, Staff Sergeant McCready twice volunteered to two night reconnaissance patrols. In each instance he courageously crawled forward under intense enemy fire and with hand grenades, destroyed enemy strong points, thereby enabling the patrols to complete the missions. On 22 February near Forbach, France, when two platoons became separated, Staff Sergeant McCready volunteered to re-establish contact between the platoons despite the known danger of enemy snipers. Shortly after proceeding on this mission he was instantly killed by enemy sniper fire. His gallant actions exemplify the highest standards of courage in the Armed Forces of the United States.