Navy Federal Credit Union

Kearie Berry was promoted to brigadier general in 1946 and retired on May 2, 1947. Five days later, he was appointed by Governor Beauford Jester as the Adjutant General of Texas; he was promoted to major general in the Texas National Guard on June 5, 1947, and he continued as Adjutant General for over fourteen years. He was advanced to brevet lieutenant general upon his retirement in 1961 from the post of Adjutant General.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Division:

    1st Division, Philippine Army

    Action Date:

    January 26 – February 17, 1942

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 216 (1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Kearie Lee Berry (ASN: 0-7220), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the Left Subsector of the I Philippine Corps, near Bagac, Bataan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 26 January 1942 to 17 February 1942. As Commanding Officer, 3d Infantry Regiment, and subsequently of the 1st Division, Philippine Army, Colonel Berry displayed outstanding courage in constantly remaining with the most advanced elements of his command, encouraging them to outstanding efforts during the height of the heroic struggle for the Tuol and Cotar River basin. Undeterred by fierce resistance, he led his men in attacking and systematically destroying the stubborn foe. By his inspiring leadership, indomitable fighting spirit, and gallant determination despite overwhelming odds, Colonel Berry was largely responsible for the defeat of the enemy in the “Little Toul Pocket” area. The exemplary heroism displayed by Colonel Berry in the face of enemy fire and his constant, fearless leadership under adverse conditions reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    February 17 – April 10, 1942

    War Department, General Orders No. 128 (1946)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General Kearie Lee Berry (ASN: 0-7220), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States while Commanding the 1st Regular Division, Philippine Army, in the Philippine Islands from 17 February 1942 to 10 April 1942. General Berry displayed superior tactical ability, outstanding leadership and a high degree of moral and physical courage that were conspicuously reflected in the heroic efforts of his forces. Despite the severe hardships of his troops and the depleted strength of the Division, General Berry, inspiring the men by his own leadership and personal example, directed them in operations that contributed greatly to the prolonged defense of the Philippines. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Berry and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    3d Infantry

    Division:

    1st Division (Philippine Army)

    Action Date:

    February 6, 1942

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Kearie Lee Berry (ASN: 0-7220), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Regimental Commander, 3d Infantry, First Regular Division (Philippine Islands Army), at Bataan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 6 February 1942. Colonel Berry calmly conducted the operations of his regiment in the face of heavy enemy small arms fire and continuously patrolled the are of the front lines in order to keep the Commanding General informed of the latest developments in the enemy situation. By his courage, cheerful bearing and indifference to personal danger, he stimulated the officers and men and materially contributed to raising the morale of our combatant units. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.