- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Lieutenant
- Unit:
- PBY-Catalina 23-P-3, Patrol Squadron 23 (VP-23), U.S. Navy
- Awarded on:
- November 1943
"For gallantry in action as a Patrol Plane Pilot in the South Pacific Area 24 August 1942. Lieutenant Kellam sighted a Japanese carrier and its supporting force. Despite the danger of fighter planes and anti-aircraft fire, he closed in and obtained valuable information regarding composition, course and speed of the enemy force. After transmitting a complete report to his base, he sighted his own carrier force to which he communicated his information. 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 Naval Service."
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 320