Col Reid W. Kennedy

Col. (ret.) Reid William Kennedy, passed away on April 4th, 2013 at the age of 92. He was born November 27, 1920 in Cleveland Ohio. His wife, Dorothy Meyer of 49 years predeceased him on April 7, 1994. Reid W. Kennedy and his son Reid G. Kennedy practiced law together for over 35 years in Cobb County. Reid W. Kennedy attended the University of Chicago and earned his law degree from Drake Law School in Des Moines, Iowa. He became a career officer in the United States Army serving in World War II, Korea and the Vietnam conflict. His many accomplishments include the Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Service Medal, Master Parachute badge, Army Commendation Medal, World War II Victory Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign and the Bronze Star medal. He was the first Company Grade JAG officer to receive Master Paratrooper status. For this he was called the “Legal Leaper” and the “Jumping JAG”. Colonel Kennedy received national attention as the trial judge in the Lt. William L. Calley Court Martial at Ft. Benning, Georgia. The trial began November 12, 1970, finally ending on March 16, 1971 - making it the longest court- martial in military history. Colonel Kennedy retired and moved to Marietta, Georgia in 1974. He thoroughly enjoyed his law practice. When not working, he loved playing golf at Indian Hills with his friends. Although he never had a hole in one, he made up for it on the 19th hole, which was always his favorite. Reid enjoyed weekly luncheons and companionship with his military friends. He also was fond of traveling and spent many happy times with his wife Irene. Reid was an avid reader who loved discussing politics and current events. His greatest love was for his country. He was a proud American and instilled those values in his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Irene, his son Reid G. Kennedy and his daughters, Barbara K. Harper and Joan K. Gersbach. He was affectionately known as Big “D” to his seven grandchildren: Robert, Reid and James Randall Harper, Alexandra K. Malcolm and Reid M. Kennedy, and Andrew and Jeffrey Reid Gersbach. He also is survived by two (2) great grandchildren, Maggie Ruth and Robert Evan Harper, Jr. Visitation will be at Mayes Ward Funeral Home in Marietta, Georgia beginning at 11:00 a.m. on April 12, 2013. His children have assembled photographs, letters, news clippings and memorabilia concerning the Calley Trial. These items will later be displayed at the Army Judge Advocate Museum in Virginia. Services will follow at 1:00 p.m. Immediately after, Colonel Kennedy’s ashes will be interned with full military honors at the Marietta National Cemetery beside those of his wife, Dorothy. In lieu of flowers, we ask donations be sent to: The US Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS) 600 Massie Road Charlottesville, VA 22903 The TJAGLCS Alumni Association is a charitable, 501(c)(3), organization. Please write "In Memory of Col. Reid Kennedy" on the check memo line. You will receive a letter from the Association's Treasurer thanking you for the tax-deductible donation. www.mayeswarddobbins.com

Col Reid W. Kennedy

November 27, 1920 - April 4, 2013