The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Edward F. Kelly (MCSN: 352917), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Machine-Gun Squad serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, on the night of 25 – 26 July 1944. When the Japanese launched a fierce, determined Banzai charge using bayonets, hand grenades and small arms, Corporal Kelly, with his squad, occupied a hazardous position in his company’s line and, despite the fanatical intensity of the hostile attack, courageously directed a stream of accurate, effective fire until he was seriously wounded in both legs and his machine gun put out of action. Steadfastly refusing evacuation, he administered first aid, pulled himself to a firing position and resumed control of his weapon, destroying fifteen of the enemy and greatly aiding in halting the attack before he was mortally wounded. Corporal Kelly’s inspiring leadership, dauntless fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty contributed materially to the security of a vital beachhead and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.