The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Bliss H. Kelly (ASN: 0-1104244), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 June 1944, in France. Captain Kelly, with his patrol was investigating possible landing sites across a canal when they were suddenly subjected to heavy machine gun and rifle fire, killing one member of his patrol and wounding Captain Kelly. Despite his painful wound, Captain Kelly courageously remained exposed to the enemy fire and provided covering fire for the withdrawal of the other members of the patrol. Only after they had reached safety did he withdraw from his position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Kelly, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.