The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William Bret Kelly (ASN: 17089084), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, on 26 October 1944, in France. On that date, Sergeant Kelly was assigned the mission of flanking an enemy tank which was firing on his company. Skillfully maneuvering forward, Sergeant Kelly worked his way to a distance of 25 yards in the rear of the tank location. Upon nearing the tank area he discovered two tanks instead of one were firing. Using hand grenades, Sergeant Kelly damaged both tanks beyond usability and captured both tank crews. During the course of this action he was under continuous hand grenade and heavy enemy fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant 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.