My name is Sherryl and my father was in the 91st Infantry. 316th Engineer Combat Battalion. I have his copy of the book, The 91st Infantry Division in WWII by Robbins and also have miscellaneous photographs that were taken during their journey.
Elton Kelly left college at U.S.C. Berkley to join the U. S. Army on December 29, 1942. He became part of the 91st Infantry, 316st's 3rd Battalion, and saw action from Africa through Europe (Rome-Arno, North Apennines, and Po Valley). He was part of the liberation of Vincenza, Italy in the Po Valley on April 29th. He was awarded the Soldier's Medal for his actions. After Task Force George had secured the crossing over the Brenta, the 361st crossed the river. There were a large number of exploded butterfly bombs complicating the crossing. Working rapidly and with unhesitating courage, members of the 316th Engineer Battalion cleared the crossing site of the bombs by pulling them with long ropes until they exploded.
After being honorably discharged from the Army, Elton worked as a Civil Servant at Eglin Air Force Base before being recalled to active duty on 5 October 1952. He served in the U.S. Air Force until retiring December 1967.
