Distinguished Service Cross

Awarded posthumously for actions during the World War II

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Air Corps) Colin Purdie Kelly, Jr., United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 14th Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (H), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 10 December 1941, near Aparri, Cagayan, Philippine Islands.

With his airplane a focal point of fire from the strong hostile naval forces, Captain Kelly exhibited a high degree of valor and skill in placing three direct hits upon an enemy battleship, resulting in its destruction. En route to his home airfield upon completion of his mission, his airplane was set afire by the attack of two enemy fighters, but Captain Kelly, the last to leave the burning plan was killed in the resulting crash.

The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kelly on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)
Action Date: 10-Dec-41
Service: Army Air Forces
Rank: Captain
Company: 14th Bombardment Squadron
Regiment: 19th Bombardment Group (H)
Division: Far East Air Force

Kelly, Colin Purdie, Jr., Capt