Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

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 First Lieutenant Francis J. Kelly (MCSN: 0-500), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near St. Etienne, France, 4 October 1918. After all other officers of his company had become casualties, First Lieutenant Kelly took command and, while able to retire to a stronger position, yet he ordered an advance against greatly superior numbers, breaking the enemy’s attack and taking many prisoners.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 1 – 10, 1918
    Citation Orders, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918) First Lieutenant Francis J. Kelly (MCSN: 0-500), United States Marine Corps, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND Division, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. First Lieutenant Kelly distinguished himself while serving with the Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces at Blanc Mont, France, 1 – 10 October 1918.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 4, 1918

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to First Lieutenant Francis J. Kelly (MCSN: 0-500), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near St. Etienne, France, 4 October 1918. After all other officers of his company had become casualties, First Lieutenant Kelly took command and, while able to retire to a stronger position, yet he ordered an advance against greatly superior numbers, breaking the enemy’s attack and taking many prisoners.