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 Corporal Junior K. McKeown (ASN: 121001035), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Service Company, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 11 July 1943. Corporal McKeown fearlessly proceeded over terrain shelled by heavy enemy artillery and recovered a number of vehicles in the path of approaching hostile forces. Although mortally wounded in this action, Corporal McKeown’s heroic devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds merits the highest praise. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.