Kelley medal outrage
Dubious distinction
They’ll give a medal to anyone. Military schmoozer Jill Kelley — a central figure in the investigation of Gen. David Petraeus — in March 2011 was awarded a prestigious medal from the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The award, the country’s secondhighest honor for a civilian, was given to acknowledge Kelley’s “selfless contributions” and “willingness to host engagements” for top pols and military brass.
Petraeus recommended her for the award while he was commander of Tampa’s US Central Command, a spokesman for the Joint Chiefs of Staff told the Tampa Tribune.
Adm. Mike Mullen, who was then the Joint Chiefs chair, approved it.
Kelley during a Washington, DC, ceremony received a silver medal, lapel pin and a citation for her efforts. Petraeus presented the award, which recognized the Florida socialite’s “outstanding public service to the United States Central Command, the MacDill Air Force Base community and the Department of Defense from October 31, 2008 to May 31, 2010.”
The citation also notes Kelley’s work in “advancing various military endeavors” and her “willingness to host engagements with senior national representatives from more than 60 countries,” according to the Tampa Tribune.
“On multiple occasions, Mrs. Kelley invited senior national representatives, their spouses and senior leaders to her home to demonstrate their gratitude and support,” the citation continues.
Kelley and her doctor husband are known for the lavish parties they throw for civic and military leaders at their $1.5 million waterfront Tampa mansion, replete with freeflowing champagne, caviar and cigars.
“These events promoted camaraderie, understanding and a better appreciation for coalition and military customs, concerns and abilities,” her citation noted.
Kelley also got a nod for helping Petraeus when he first took command of CentCom.
“She [was] instrumental in introducing the commander, early in his tenure, to local and state officials, particularly the mayor of Tampa and the governor of Florida,” according to the citation.
“The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Mrs. Jill Kelley are in keeping with the finest traditions of public service and reflect great credit upon herself, United States Central Command and the Department of Defense.”
Kelley’s complaint to the FBI allegedly threatening emails from Petraeus mistress Paula Broadwell sparked a probe and Petraeus’ resignation as CIA boss. The investigation also uncovered several email exchanges between Kelley and Gen. John Allen.
The emails are now part of a Defense Department probe: Allen’s nomination to lead NATO’s forces in Europe has been put on hold.
Allen yesterday returned to his post as head of NATO forces in Afghanistan.