Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

March 10th, 1945

For action performed on 20 December 1944, at Cheneux (municipality Stoumont)/Province of Liège, Belgium.

Citation:
"for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 20 December 1944, at ***, BELGIUM. Private Kinney, a member of a machine gun crew, was attached to the left element of the attacking force which had advanced about 200 yards when it was stopped by a vicious crossfire from an enemy cannon and machine guns. The fire from this strongpoint destroyed the five out of eight machine guns. Private Kinney, realizing further casualties would result in disaster, advanced with three other men, under this crossfire of enemy automatic weapons, for about 200 yards. His path was constantly crossed by barbed wire fences, causing him to silhouette himself while advancing. With complete disregard for his personal safety he cut these wires and continued his advance. Although small arms fire was hitting within a short distance, Private Kinney crawled within twenty-five yards and threw two hand grenades, destroying the gunner and neutralizing the enemy cannon. The actions of Private Kinney were an inspiration to his comrades in the subsequent assault which was successfully concluded. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army."

Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 31 (March 10, 1945)