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(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John J. Kelly, Jr. (ASN: 0-02047707), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Action in 1944 and 1945. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    117th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 16, 1944
    “Work Horse of the Western Front – The Story of the 30th Infantry Division” By Robert L. Hewitt

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John J. Kelly, Jr. (ASN: 0-02047707), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 November 1944, in Germany. When his company ran into a dense mine field, suffering many casualties and losing a litter squad, Lieutenant Kelly left he safety of his rear position and directed the clearing of a path to the wounded. He entered the mine field on several occasions I places that had not been probed to go to the aid of the wounded. By his great heroism Lieutenant Kelly was instrumental in speedily evacuating the wounded, thereby saving the lives of several of his comrades. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.