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 Major (Field Artillery) John Lloyd McKee, Jr. (ASN: 0-24838), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 901st Field Artillery Battalion, 76th Infantry Division. Major McKee distinguished himself by gallantry in action against the enemy on 12 April 1945 in the vicinity of Trebnitz, Germany. On this date Major McKee accompanied a liaison pilot in an artillery liaison plane over enemy territory in search of information regarding the disposition of friendly and enemy troops, in addition to reconnoitering for battery positions to insure that contemplated areas were cleared of the enemy. Through his efforts enemy pockets of resistance were eliminated by bringing artillery fire to bear upon them. At great personal risk he ventured on this mission. He was shot down and killed by the enemy while flying over one of these enemy pockets of resistance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major McKee, 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.