The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Hugh F. Kennedy (ASN: 0-890457), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious services while assigned as Chaplain of the 101st Division, Philippine Army, on Mindanao, Philippine Islands, during the period January to May 1942. By visiting the front line troops under fire on his own initiative, by the zeal, energy and enthusiasm which he displayed to troops in contact with the enemy, in hospitals and rear areas, Chaplain Kennedy exerted tremendous influence on the morale of the troops that added ma terially to the effectiveness of the Division. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Chaplain Kennedy and his dedicated contributions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.