Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Kenneth Ralph Nelson (ASN: 0-1287392), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 3rd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Malmedy, Belgium, on 21 December 1944. When a large scale enemy attack forced forward elements of First Lieutenant Nelson’s company to withdraw to new positions, he determined to hold his position. Although the enemy at times was within twenty-five yards of First Lieutenant Nelson’s section, they savagely repelled the attacks. In order to better coordinate the work of his depleted force, First Lieutenant Nelson daringly exposed himself to the enemy. After being severely wounded, First Lieutenant Nelson refused evacuation and continued directing his action until he died of his wounds a short time later. First Lieutenant Nelson’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    120th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 21, 1944

    Headquarters, NINTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 130 (April 29, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Kenneth Ralph Nelson (ASN: 0-1287392), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Malmedy, Belgium, on 21 December 1944. First Lieutenant Nelson’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.