The Secretary of the Army of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Army Commendation Medal with Combat “V” to Staff Sergeant Matthew E. McKenzie, United States Army, for heroic and valorous achievement. On the morning of 3 June 2006, Combat Company, 2d Platoon, ed Squad’s foot patrol had just completed a village assessment of Landigal Village, in the Korengal Valley. While moving back towards the Korengal Outpost, five enemy personnel engaged the patrol in a near ambush. Staff Sergeant McKenzie exposed himself to extremely accurate fire as he ran to check on his team 30 meters in front of him. He then designated enemy positions and exposed himself again to accurate enemy direct fire in order to maneuver his trail fire team into position. He put his squad into a support by fire position that gave his squad the advantage to continue engaging the enemy. This allowed the other squad to assault through the enemy ambush position. Staff Sergeant McKenzie’s quick decision in a time of duress undoubtedly saved the lives of his Soldiers. Staff Sergeant McKenzie displayed superb situational awareness, resulting in effective use of forces. His execution of a support by fire element allowed for the element to the rear of the patrol to be an effective assault force against the enemy. Without Staff Sergeant McKenzie making a sound rapid decision, the element at the rear of the patrol would have been out of the fight, tremendously decreasing combat strength and possibly resulting in friendly casualties. His actions are in the highest traditions of a true combat Soldier. His disregard for his own personal safety and dedication to duty and to his fellow Soldiers is a true example of valorous action. His actions significantly disrupted the enemy ambush and inspired all those around him.