Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    June 6 – 7, 1918

    War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

    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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Leo P. Kelly, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Vaux, France, 6 – 7 June 1918. During a night attack made by his battalion, Lieutenant Kelly, the battalion adjutant, voluntarily left his dugout and went to the front line positions, through the intense artillery fire. There he successfully maintained liaison with the advance troops and the artillery in the rear by means of signals sent from his exposed position. His absolute disregard for his own safety contributed largely to the success of the engagement.