- Kenneth Molloy
Kenneth Dennis Molloy (1919 – 1999) was a notably well-known and popular personality among the residents of his hometown, Manhasset. He was respected for his exploits as an All-American athlete and a
judge on theNew York State Supreme Court , and admired for his general affability.Beyond this local fame, Molloy is renowned virtually nationwide for his role in the cultivation of
Jim Brown 's legendary athletic talent. When the coaching staffs atSyracuse University did not offer a scholarship to Brown, Molloy amassed enough money to pay for Brown’s first year and obtained a promise from the school that if Brown was as talented as said to be, he would be put on scholarship.He died in 1999. His son, Kenneth Molloy, and grandson, Kenneth Thomas Molloy, are named after him.
Kenneth Molloy was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his service in World War II. His Citation reads as follows: "AWARD OF SILVER STAR MEDAL By virtue of the power delegated to me, I take pleasure in awarding in the name of the President of the United States, the Silver Star Medal to: LIEUTENANT (JG) KENNETH D. MOLLOY, U.S. NAVAL RESERVE CITATION For distinguishing himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy. On 17 August 1944, as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat 326, he was conducting a patrol against Japanese barges on the west shore of Geelvink Bay. On the previous night another PT patrol had sighted and attacked approximately twleve enemy barges on the beach on the southeastern coast of Mansiman Island, off Manokwari, New Guinea. Under orders to make a close reconnaissance of these barges, and to destroy any that remained serviceable, he approached the position in broad daylight to within twenty yards of the beach. He first made one run at a very slow speed to appraise the number and condition of the enemy craft. He then reversed his course and thoroughly strafed the entire row of barges. At this time heavy calibre enemy batteries at Manokwari opened up, as well as machine gun positions on Mansiman. Despite this, he courageously and aggressively made a second run in the face of the fire to within fifty yards of the barges and beach. It has been definitely established that three of the craft were sunk, and all the remaining barges were damaged beyone repair. His skill and calmness were outstanding. His leadership was an inspiration to his men. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. T.C. KINCAID Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy, Commander Seventh Fleet. Classified Citation"
External links
* Brennan, Eileen. [http://www.antonnews.com/manhassetpress/1999/03/19/news/molloy.html "A Sad Farewell to 'Mr. Manhasset'"] . "Manhasset Press", March 19, 1999.
Persondata
NAME=Molloy, Kenneth Dennis
ALTERNATIVE NAMES=
SHORT DESCRIPTION=New York State Supreme Court judge
DATE OF BIRTH=1919
PLACE OF BIRTH=Brooklyn, New York
DATE OF DEATH=1999
PLACE OF DEATH=Manhasset, New York
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