Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    81st Chemical Mortar Battalion (Motorized)

    Division:

    Chemical Warfare Service

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1944

    Headquarters, FIRST U.S. Army, General Orders No. 37 (July 21, 1944)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Kenneth Paul Kidwell, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company A, 81st Chemical Mortar Battalion (Motorized), Chemical Warfare Service, in action against enemy forces at Normandy France, on 6 June 1944. Private Kidwell was hit in the foot by a piece of shrapnel just after leaving a landing barge during the assault on Omaha Beach at Normandy France. Despite his wound, he advanced with his unit and continued tirelessly to treat the wounded. Private Kidwell’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.