Warrant Officer MacKay was the second-in-command of 1 Platoon, A Company, 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group during Operation ARCHER Rotation 1. On July 14, 2006, his platoon reinforced a US Company fighting near Pasab, Afghanistan. Despite heavy small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire, Warrant Officer MacKay helped coordinate light armoured vehicle fire support, enabling the platoon’s firepower to be rapidly and effectively employed. After winning the firefight, he coordinated the successful assault crossing of an enemy bridge, securing the far bank and allowing a safe withdrawal to a patrol base east of the village. Warrant Officer MacKay's outstanding leadership and fortitude allowed coalition forces to retake the initiative.