parachute jump, the regiment moved to airfields near Paris prepared to jump into or near prisoner-of-war camps to free allied prisoners.
The war in Europe ended and the 508th PIR moved to Heddernheim, Germany for occupation duty. General Eisenhower had requested the regiment for duty as the security force and honor guard for his headquarters.
Raymond Kennedy served in the 508th PIR from July 3, 1944 to November 9, 1945 when he re-enlisted in the Army. Ray earned:
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Bronze Star Medal
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Purple Heart Medal
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Invasion Arrowhead
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Combat Infantry Badge
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Three battle stars
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Parachute Qualification badge with star for a combat jump
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Presidential Unit Citation
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Belgium Fourragere
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Orange Lanyard of the Royal Netherlands Army
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Numerous defense medals including the Occupation Medal with Germany Bar.
Ray returned to the United States November 27, 1945. On December 4, 1945 in Baton Rouge, LA., Ray married Edna Lee Gayle.
Ray served in the Army at Fort Hood, TX, until he was discharged June 2, 1947.
Ray and Edna established a residence in Baton Rouge and raised three sons Ken, Fred, and Roy. They enjoy having six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Raymond and Edna Kennedy
Ray and Edna Kennedy reside at 1126 Sinbad Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70714-3949 | 
