ADMIRING CROWDS WRECK LEAVE PLANS MADE BY COMMANDO KELLY
Oakland Tribune April 27th, 1944 pg. 2

PITTSBURGH, April 27- (AP) – Tech. Sgt. Charles E. (Commando) Kelly today fidgeted at his Shawano Street home and wondered with his
“Mom” if the unfettered enthusiasm of his neighbors and of the Pittsburgh admirers has been at least partially satiated.

Last night, a crowd estimated by police at more than 20,000 surged through police lines in West Park just a few blocks from his northside home to abruptly end a day-long celebration that set Pittsburgh agog with feverish delight. “We want Kelly,” the unmanageable crowd shouted, as the reception committee entreated the adoring populace for quiet and order.

Five women fainted in the melee and 20 children were lost and had to be recovered at a police station before the Congressional Medal of Honor winner spoke in desperation.

LOST FOR WORDS
“I don’t have much to say,” he said, “but I appreciate what you are trying to do and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Hushed momentarily into silence, the crowd again pressed toward the bandstand where the “one-man army” acknowledged the cheers, together with his family and city dignitaries. Police then forced through the milling throng in an automobile directly to the bandstand to pick up Kelly as the committee cancelled the remainder of the program.

MOST SPONTANEOUS
One police captain said it was one of the most spontaneous demonstrations he had witnessed in 30 years. After being presented with the key to the city by Mayor Cornelius D. Scully during a brief program in front of City Hall, Kelly smilingly told the thousands, “Gee. I don’t know what to say but thanks to you all.”

Later, with “Mom” his eight brothers and 40 close personal friends, the “one-man army” enjoyed a dinner given by the city’s reception committee at a downtown hotel.