The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Kelly W. Thurmond (ASN: 34689474), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 28 September 1944, near ****, Holland. Sergeant Thurmond, seeing two of his fellow men fall wounded in the adjoining emplacement, disregarded all personal safety and dashed to their aid. With great courage and cool judgment, he administered first aid and carried them from the midst of fierce artillery fire to safety and medical attention. Fearlessly returning again through the bursting enemy shells, Sergeant Thurmond picked up a rifle previously manned by one of the wounded men, and moved forward to a more advantageous position. From there he delivered accurate and deadly fire on the enemy until the attack was dispersed. 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.