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TO COMMEND THE EXTRAORDINARY HEROISM OF STAFF SERGEANT ROBERT S. KENNEMORE WHO WAS AWARDED THE MEDAL OF HONOR FOR HIS VALOR, WHICH IS THE HIGHEST AWARD THAT CAN BE BESTOWED UPON A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Whereas, throughout our nation's history, men and women in all eras from Concord and Lexington to Falleujah have gone in harm's way to protect and secure our country's freedom and way of life; and
Whereas, to recognize extraordinary heroism the Congress of the United States established the Medal of Honor which represents the highest award for valor that can be bestowed upon a member of the armed forces of the United States; and
Whereas, there have been more than three thousand four hundred recipients but fewer than one hundred forty remain with us today; and
Whereas, most recipients of the medal are ordinary Americans from ordinary backgrounds who, under extraordinary circumstances and at great risk to their own lives, performed an incredible act or a series of acts of conspicuous valor that clearly sets them apart from their comrades; and
Whereas, thirty-seven citizens with South Carolina roots have received the Medal of Honor since its inception; and
Whereas, Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore is one of these South Carolinians who has demonstrated conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life while serving as the leader of a machinegun section in Company E of the United States Marine Corps, in an action against enemy forces in Korea; and
Whereas, after a savage attack on his company and his platoon leader severely wounded, Staff Sergeant Kennemore unhesitatingly assumed command and quickly reorganized the unit to consolidate the position. When an enemy grenade landed in their midst, Staff Sergeant Kennemore nobly and unhesitatingly placed his foot upon the grenade; and
Whereas, in the face of almost certain death, Staff Sergeant Kennemore absorbed the devastating impact of the explosion, a heroic act that prevented injury to his fellow marines; and
Whereas, his selfless efforts, exceptional leadership, and inspiring courage provide a lasting example of the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service; and
Whereas, the members of the General Assembly, by this resolution, would like to publicly recognize and honor Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore, this brave and courageous American, for his extraordinary heroism in the defense of our country and her ideals which epitomizes the very best of what America stands for. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That the members of the General Assembly commend the extraordinary heroism of Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor, which is the highest award that can be bestowed upon a member of the armed forces of the United States.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the family of Staff Sergeant Robert S. Kennemore.
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