Michael John McCarty of Bald Knob served as a Lieutenant with C company, 3rd Battalion, 153rd Infantry, 1st Cavalry Division in Baghdad, Iraq, during 2004 and 2005. He earned three awards for valor, including the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action.

On November 20, 2004, as platoon leader for the 3rd Platoon, McCarty was ordered to confirm or deny enemy presence around an Iraqi police station. His platoon encountered small arms fire and a suicide car bomber, which detonated near their vehicle, wounding two soldiers. McCarty successfully evacuated his wounded soldiers and continued towards the police station, where his platoon was attacked by 76 insurgents armed with RPGs, machine guns, and small arms.

Despite his M114 vehicle being hit by an RPG, McCarty charged and neutralized an enemy machine gun team, securing their weapon. Throughout the battle, he exposed himself to enemy fire to ensure ammunition resupply and evacuation of casualties. The battle resulted in over 30 enemy combatants killed.

Although wounded, McCarty participated in a subsequent company movement to eliminate remaining enemy forces, clear IEDs, and secure the police station. His additional awards include the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Purple Heart Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal for valor and meritorious service.