The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Edwin F. Kelly (MCSN: 351461), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on December 26, 1943. Skillfully leading his group in a vigorous and determined assault on an enemy pillbox in the face of intense hostile fire, Corporal Kelly directed his men to advantageous positions from which they were able to destroy the enemy emplacement and, courageously calm and efficient, subsequently returned his comrades safely to their lines. Corporal Kelly’s inspiring leadership and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.