By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Colonel (Infantry) R. H. Kelly, United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Colonel Kelly distinguished himself by gallantry in action and brilliant leadership while serving with the 116th Infantry, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Malbrouck Hill, 8 October 1918.