The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Howard W. McKee (ASN: 0-1289938), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 94th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany on 2 March 1945. In a fierce assault on strongly defended positions, Captain McKee’s company was counterattacked by a battalion of enemy SS and mountain troops. Despite intense artillery, mortar and rocket fire, Captain McKee repeatedly exposed himself to the intense fire in order to direct and place his men, inspiring them by his fearless courage. Skillfully leading his troops, they repulsed repeated fanatic enemy counterattacks and prevented a breakthrough. His heroism and courageous, untiring devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.