Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry

Awarded on:

May 12th, 1945

Citation:
"During the afternoon and evening of 19 February 1945, The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry was engaged in a desperate battle for high ground southwest of Calcar.

Corporal Kelly was one of the few remaining Non-Commissioned Officers left in his company due to heavy casualties being inflicted by enemy mortar and shell fire. In spite of the fact that several 88 mm guns were nearby and enemy tanks were all around, Corporal Kelly took over his platoon, reorganized them with part of another group and pressed feverishly on to their objective. Surrounding farm houses were stubbornly defended by paratroopers, and with the aid of a companion, Corporal Kelly cleaned out one strong point against tremendous odds.

Following this Corporal Kelly led an attack across a large open field and his utter disregard for personal safety in making sure the momentum was not lost was an overwhelming inspiration to his comrades.

Later, after consolidation, one of our supporting tanks was knocked out in an open field nearby and some of the injured crew could be seen lying near. He did not hesitate to dash forward over one hundred yards, mortared all the way, and with the aid of a companion brought back the two remaining living members of the crew. Corporal Kelly's bravery and courage was of the highest order and his several feats of the day."