sentences:  On October 29, 1974 he became Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army during the army's transition to an all-volunteer force and post-Vietnam War restructuring.Kerwin awards and decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Army Distinguished Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, the Bronze Star, Air Medal with ten oak leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal and the Purple Heart.Kerwin's service awards include the American Defense Service Medal, European Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal with star, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.