The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James L. McKean (NSN: 4132870), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 March 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman McKean displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While subjected to a devastating enemy barrage of mortar and artillery fire, he and three of his comrades were critically wounded by hostile fire falling in the trenchline. Despite extremely painful wounds, he gallantly crept through the intense barrage to aid the three injured Marines. Expressing complete disregard for his serious condition, he steadfastly refused medical attention for his wounds until he had administered aid to the other stricken men. He courageously insisted that the others be evacuated to safety before he allowed himself to be treated and then only upon the direct order of the Battalion Surgeon was he evacuated. Hospitalman McKean’s gallant and courageous actions combined with his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.