Guard John Lawrence Kelly, United States Department of the Treasury

Guard John Lawrence Kelly

United States Department of the Treasury - Customs Service, U.S. Government

End of Watch Monday, February 9, 1931

John Lawrence Kelly

Customs Guard John Kelly fell into the Mississippi River from the revenue cutter Davey near the Chalmette slip and drowned.

Guard Kelly had reboarded the Davey after searching a Japanese vessel in the slip. As the cutter turned upstream Guard Kelly lost his balance and fell into the river.

Lifelines and buoys were thrown to him but he sunk beneath the surface before he was able to grab them.

Guard Kelly had served as a United States Customs guard for more than seven years. He had previously served with the New Orleans Fire Department. He was survived by his wife, two infant sons, and one brother.

Bio

Age 31
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Drowned
Location Louisiana

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 81rst anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect and your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

February 9, 2012