The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Robert McKinney (MCSN: 1123031), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of the First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Seoul, Korea, on 30 September 1950. Observing that elements of his platoon were pinned down by intense hostile small arms and machine gun fire from two covered enemy positions on a hill to the front, Private McKinney courageously ran to the base of the hill and directed two friendly tanks to a firing position from which they could neutralize the hostile strong points. After positioning the armored vehicles, he braved the enemy barrage to direct the tanks in delivering accurate fire on the hostile emplacements, thereby contributing materially to the advance of his platoon on its objective. His initiative, skill and indomitable fighting spirit reflect great credit upon Private McKinney and the United States Naval Service.