During the Vietnam War, Kelly served in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968 with the 1st Infantry Division.[5][6] While being transported by helicopter, he was shot down four times and crashed six times.[7]
As a major general, Kelly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Dix, New Jersey.[3] After that, he was placed in charge of the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command from August 1987 to January 1988. His promotion to lieutenant general was approved in March 1988.[8]
Lt. Gen. Kelly and Joint Staff intelligence director Rear Adm. Mike McConnell during a Gulf War press briefing
During the 1989 Panama invasion and the 1991 Gulf War, Kelly was in charge of the National Military Command Center at the Pentagon.[4] His first experience conducting large press briefings was in 1989.[7] CNN correspondent Wolf Blitzer recalled that "he came across as someone credible and honest."[4]
After the Gulf War, Kelly retired from active duty at the beginning of April 1991.[4]
Later career
After retirement, Kelly embarked on a round of public speaking engagements. His first time flying First Class was to appear on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.[4]
In 1995, the American Legion presented him with their Distinguished Service Medal.[7]
Personal
Kelly was the son of Vincent De Paul Kelly (13 March 1901 – 12 May 1942)[9] and Mary Gertrude (Kirrane) Kelly (17 May 1901 – 11 March 1984). He had four sisters.[10]
Kelly married Dorothy Mary Bursak in 1957. They had two sons, a daughter and four grandchildren.[5][6]
