CPL JAMES RAYMOND KELLY

JAMES RAYMOND KELLY

JOHN O'DONNELL
MARINE VET
HONORING A MARINE HERO
THIS MAN HAS GIVEN OF HIMSELF EVERTHING HE COULD, SO THAT HIS BROTHER MARINES AND THE PEOPLE BACK HOME COULD LIVE A MORE PEACEFUL LIFE. THIS GIFT OF HIS LIFE SHOWS THE GREATNESS OF THIS HERO. HERO'S DON'T WEAR A CAPE OR MASK NO! THEY WEAR MARINE GREEN.HERO'S COME IN DIFFERENT SHAPE'S AND SIZE'S. AS EACH DAY PASSES,WE MUST TAKE THE TIME TO REMEMBER WHAT THIS HERO GAVE UP! SO THAT WE COULD LIVE IN A FREE SOCIETY. THANK YOU ! SEMPER FI! HERO YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
Mar 24, 2014

Micheal Conroy
michealfconroy@gmail.com
I was also in the firefight.
412 5th Street NE Puyallup WA 98372 USA
Merry Christmas Jim
Jim was a Marine that would do whatever it took and be first in line whenever he was needed. The tattoo on his forearm read 'Death Before Dishonor' and that is how he lived and died for his country. When I saw him being carried away I vowed to name my first child, boy or girl, Kelly. That son, Kelly Michael Conroy, will be 40 years old in February and has a lovely wife and 4 beautiful kids, thanks in no small part to 'Kelly' Merry Christmas buddy. CPL Micheal Conroy - USMC
Dec 26, 2013

Patricia Nance
pnance@zoomtown.com
Daughter of a friend
Cincinnati OH
My dad, Darrell Elkins, was injured and with Cpl Kelly when he was killed. My dad loved him very much and his death has affected him everyday of his life. I was fortunate to be able to take my dad to the Vietnam Memorial Wall in 2010, this was his first visit ever. My heart broke as I helped my dad search and find Cpl Kelly's name. He began to cry and could not speak. I held his hand while he mourned, but I think it gave him a little closure (or at least I hope so). It was even more touching when some folks visiting came up to my dad and shook his hand and thanked him for his service. I never knew Cpl Kelly, but I know he was a great man because my dad loved him so.
Jan 22, 2013

Robert Pearce
Navy Cross Citation
Citation: The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Raymond Kelly, III (2040353), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a grenadier with Company I, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 March 1967. During a search and destroy mission, Corporal Kelly's platoon was engaged in a heavily contested conflict against enemy forces. As his platoon entered the village of An Hoa, it became subjected to intense enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire, which inflicted numerous casualties upon the Marines. With complete disregard for his own safety and with full knowledge of the hazards involved, Corporal Kelly assaulted an enemy bunker single-handedly and destroyed it. The enemy then attempted to flank the Marine platoon with six men armed with automatic weapons. Utilizing a well camouflaged trenchline, the enemy was close to accomplishing their objective when Corporal Kelly suddenly observed their movement. He rushed forward in the face of certain death, killed three of the enemy and caused the remainder to flee. Mortally wounded during this action, Corporal Kelly by his bold initiative and selfless concern for others undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. His daring display of courage was responsible for the eventual successful accomplishment of the platoon's mission and an inspiration to all who observed him. Corporal Kelly's indomitable fighting spirit, professional skill and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country. Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals Home Town: Sacramento, California
Aug 20, 2012

Jackie Taylor

May your spirit always live on in the hearts of those you loved and those who grew to love you for your bravery, courage and dedication. A salute to you, Sir, and all the Vets gone but not forgotten.
Mar 23, 2009

manny g
Fellow Veteran 69-70 An Khe
Union Gap, WA. 98903
�You are Remembered�
Peace and condolence, to the family and friends. "He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother�. Rest in peace brave soldier, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare) May God Bless You for your Sacrifice!!!

Mar 12, 2008

Grateful American
Fellow Californian
American Hero
Thank you Cpl Kelly for your ultimate sacrifice. Rest well Marine and rest assured that you Sir, are not forgotten.
Wednesday, March 23, 2005

Proud American
Sacramento, CA
Proud American
Happy Birthday. Thank you for everything you did for our country. God Bless You
Tuesday, March 12, 2002

greg cordova
r.cordova@att.net
boot camp friend
phoenix, az 85027
Tribute to a friend
James was another of my boot camp buddies. All through training we grew close not knowing that soon we would be sent into harms way. I admired James for being "quietly smart". He never made waves, just wanted to get along with everyone and get through the grind and anxiety of training. The drill instructors could never get a rise out of him no matter how hard they tried. I just called him "Kelly" and he never seemed to mind. He just wanted to do his time, and move on. I miss you buddy, you'll never be forgotten as long as I'm around.Greg Cordova, Sgt. USMC
Saturday, April 10, 2004

ANONYMOUS AND GRATEFUL
HOW CAN IT BE THAT SOMEONE SO YOUNG CAN GIVE THEIR LIFE FOR OUR COUNTRY AND SO FEW ACKNOWLEDGE HIS SACRIFICE. SOME OF US CARE. THANK YOU SEEMS SO INADEQUATE BUT IT'S ALL I HAVE.
Friday, December 02, 2005