| Regimental number | 24178 |
| Occupation | Farm hand |
| Next of kin | Father, Jeremiah Kelly, Fairview, Timaru |
| Rank on embarkation | Private |
| Unit name | New Zealand Expeditionary Force, 13th Reinforcements, Canterbury Infantry Battalion, C Company |
| Embarkation details | Unit embarked from Wellington on |
| The infantry component of the 13th Reinforcements left New Zealand on board two ships, 'Willochra' and 'Tofua'. It is not possible from the Nominal Roll to determine on which ship an individual embarked. | |
| Final rank | Lance Sergeant |
| Final unit | 1st Battalion, Canterbury Infantry Regiment |
| Fate | Commenced return to New Zealand |
| Medals |
Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During the attack on Beaudignies Bridge Head Lance Sergeant Kelly was in command of the leading patrol. By his skilful leadership and the bold way in which he pushed forward he captured the Bridge head, and secured the ground on the other side before the enemy realised what had happened. When the enemy attacked the Bridge head, he drove them off, holding the position he had gained. He then moved along to the flanks under very heavy machine-gun fire, showing absolute, disregard for personal danger, establishing touch with the flank posts. His behaviour throughout was magnificent and inspired confidence in his men.'
Source: 'London Gazette' Date: |
| Date of death | |
| Sources | Nominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 33, p. 11 |