Robert Sidney Kennemore

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the

Medal of Honor

to Staff Sergeant Robert Sidney Kennemore (MCSN: 285921), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 27 and 28 November 1950, as leader of a machinegun section in Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces north of Yudam-ni near the Chosin Reservoir, North Korea. With the company's defensive perimeter overrun by a numerically superior hostile force during a savage night attack north of Yudam-ni and his platoon commander seriously wounded, Staff Sergeant Kennemore unhesitatingly assumed command, quickly reorganized the unit and directed the men in consolidating the position. When an enemy grenade landed in the midst of a machinegun squad, he bravely placed his foot on the missile and, in the face of almost certain death, personally absorbed the full force of the explosion to prevent injury to his fellow Marines. By his indomitable courage, outstanding leadership and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, Staff Sergeant Kennemore was greatly instrumental in driving the enemy from the area and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Action Date: November 27 & 28, 1950

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Company: Company E

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.)