The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Carl Lester Kelly (ASN: 0-2262336), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 12 February 1951 in the vicinity of Hoengsong, Korea. On that date the 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry, was securing the withdrawal of a field artillery battalion along a mountain road while under heavy attack from the enemy who were occupying the high ground to the rear and along both sides of the withdrawing column. In spite of heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire, Lieutenant Kelly reconnoitered the enemy weapon positions which were blocking the withdrawal. He then organized the driver and artillerymen, whose vehicles had been destroyed, into fighting groups and led them against the hostile positions. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he conducted repeated aggressive attacks, wiping out enemy forces and weapons which were trying to block the road and prevent further movement of the vehicles and artillery. Besides inspiring aggressiveness and instilling confidence in the groups of artillerymen and personnel from other units whom he led against the enemy, the conspicuous actions of Lieutenant Kelly served to center the fire of the enemy upon him. Although this fire became increasingly heavy he continued to expose himself in leading the assaults until finally he was struck by enemy fire and fell mortally wounded. The gallantry, aggressive leadership, and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Kelly reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.