Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

2nd Lieutenant (Second Lieutenant)

Unit:

Service Battery, 434th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Armored Division "Lucky Seventh", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

November 2nd, 1944

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against the enemy. On 10 September 1944, near Dornot, France, when advancing allied troops were subjected to heavy losses caused by enemy mortar, artillery, and small-arms fire, Lieutenant McKenna voluntarily moved to a forward observation post to direct fire from his own artillery. Completely disregrading his own personal safety, he exposed himself to the enemy to adjust his fire upon the enemy positions. So close was the contact with the enemy that some of his own shells burst within a few yards of his observation post. So efficient was his adjustment of fire that a grave situation for the advancing infantry elements was alleviated. The extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Lieutenant McKenna reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highsed traditions of military service. Entered military service from New York.

Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 58 (1944).