Captain ROSS S. KELLY recieved the Distinguished Service Cross for Extraordinary Heroism during the period 14-21 April, 1972. The then First Lieutenant Kelly distinguished himself while serving as Deputy Senior Advisor and Acting Senior Advisor, 6th Airborne Battalion, Airborne Division, Army of the republic of Vietnam. On a combat assault to relieve enemy pressure of the besieged provincial capital of An Loc, the 6th Airborne Battalion immediately engaged numerically superior enemy forces. During this period , Lieutenant Kelly repeatedly exposed himself to enemy small arms and indirect fire while directing friendly airstrikes to within 25 meters of his position. The battalion received intensive enemy indirect fire for several days during which he continually thwarted enemy troop attacks by effectively employing massive air power against their positions. During a nightime attempt to break out of the enemy encirclement under the cover of B-52 strikes, Lieutenant Kelly succeeded in leading the remainder of the battalion through enemy lines while receiving direct and indirect fire from all directions. Although weak and exhausted, his personal example and forceful urging helped to encourage the battalion to continue over the rough terrain as they used the remaining small amount of ammunition to protect their rear elements against advancing enemy troops. Once again Lieutenant Kelly employed supporting airstrikes and the battalion was successfully evacuated from the area. His leadership, professional knowledge and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds were directly responsible for saving the battalion from immimnent disaster. Lieutenant Kelly’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Captain Kelly joined the Legion of Valor in 1979.