 Adoption of the jungle field ration and the jungle hammock as standard equipment by the US Army in World War II is credited to Kearny, along with improvements to many other items of tropical gear, such as the Panama-soled jungle boot and the M1942 Machete.In recognition of his service, he was soon promoted to major and awarded the Legion of Merit.In 1943, he married May Willacy Eskridge of San Antonio.