“I never thought I would get that wonderful ribbon. Really, I don’t think I deserve it. So many other good lads equally brave were knocked out before the end. You are not kidding me, are you?"
Hi, everyone -- A few of you have asked what happened to the other Medal. So, to clarify, both the Army and the Navy awarded him the Medal for the same action. And, to be honest, I didn't really focus on whether Pershing gave Kelly the Army or the Navy Medal, but it looks like it was the Navy one. (I am looking at the date of presentations here: https://mohmuseum.org/medal_of_honor/john-kelly-2.) I went looking through old newspapers this morning to see if I could figure out when the Army one was awarded. As best I can tell, the Army one was just an announcement on January 22. I don't see anything about a formal ceremony. To the contrary, Kelly is quoted as being surprised that he got a Medal in a late February newspaper. (Of course, there could have been a lag between interview and press time.) Anyway, the long and short of it is that I don't know for sure, but Pershing at least gave him the Navy Medal. I suppose it's possible he had both Medals with him. But that's the story that was told in newspapers.... Everyone thought it endearing that he was "too busy" to meet Pershing for the Medal and that he planned to give it to his mom.
Awesome story. The US Marines were referred to as Devil Dogs by the German warriors during these battles. The Marines were highly regarded by General Pershing.
Yes, the history books are empty of names of the every day heroes that did the grunt work to bring the victories home for America. Thankfully, we can learn about some of them from your writings where they can stand out and receive the attention they deserve.
Hi, everyone -- A few of you have asked what happened to the other Medal. So, to clarify, both the Army and the Navy awarded him the Medal for the same action. And, to be honest, I didn't really focus on whether Pershing gave Kelly the Army or the Navy Medal, but it looks like it was the Navy one. (I am looking at the date of presentations here: https://mohmuseum.org/medal_of_honor/john-kelly-2.) I went looking through old newspapers this morning to see if I could figure out when the Army one was awarded. As best I can tell, the Army one was just an announcement on January 22. I don't see anything about a formal ceremony. To the contrary, Kelly is quoted as being surprised that he got a Medal in a late February newspaper. (Of course, there could have been a lag between interview and press time.) Anyway, the long and short of it is that I don't know for sure, but Pershing at least gave him the Navy Medal. I suppose it's possible he had both Medals with him. But that's the story that was told in newspapers.... Everyone thought it endearing that he was "too busy" to meet Pershing for the Medal and that he planned to give it to his mom.
Thank you for another MOH story. Every day folks, doing extraordinary things! 🇺🇸💖
A wonder story of when a boy became a brave man. Lest we never forget!
🇺🇸 lest we forget 🇺🇲
Awesome story. The US Marines were referred to as Devil Dogs by the German warriors during these battles. The Marines were highly regarded by General Pershing.
Thank you, Tara.
Another great story about a great American marine.
Our heroes quietly, modestly giving their best. Love reading their stories. Thank you!
MOH Mondays are all great stories of American determination to not quit! Thanks!
Yes, the history books are empty of names of the every day heroes that did the grunt work to bring the victories home for America. Thankfully, we can learn about some of them from your writings where they can stand out and receive the attention they deserve.
A great story from each one. No glory hounds in this group!
Another Humble Hero that I had never heard of before!
We must never forget those who fought for our Freedom over the past 250 years!
Thank you Tara!!
Betsy Tara Ross another great example of another good guy! Thanks so much for sharing!
So much bravery in one so young. May God continue to bless his descendants and keep his memory alive.
Thanks as always for another great story of our great heroes.
So many hero's in our past history of war.