The 35th Infantry Regiment Association salutes our fallen brother, PFC Wesley Robert Kelby, who died in the service of his country on June 28th, 1967 in Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam. The cause of death was listed as Grenade Thrown-In Night Laager. At the time of his death Wesley was 18 years of age. He was from Federal Way, Washington. Wesley is honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Panel 22E, Line 78.

The decorations earned by PFC Wesley Robert Kelby include: the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation.

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Wesley was born June 28, 1948 in Prosser, Benton County, Washington, the son of Frank and Alma Kelby. At 6 months old, Wesley with his parents, Brother Rodney and Sister Arlene, moved to Coulee City, Grant County, Washington. He was raised just outside of town, attended school in town, active in sport and graduated from Coulee City High School, May 25, 1966. After graduation, Wesley worked construction, not determining what his career path should be, he elected to enlist in the Army starting active duty at Fort Lewis Washingtonon November 22, 1966. Commencing tour in Vietnam May 8, 1967 with Company B, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry, 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Wesley was killed June 28, 1967 by enemy grenade fragments while his platoon was on defensive perimeter guard near Due Pho, Republic of Vietnam. Funeral Service at the Assembly of God Church in Coulee City on July 05, 1967 followed by a Military Burial at Valley View Memorial Park, Soap Lake, Grant County, Washington. Wesley was raised within a very close knit family and
their loss was devastating.