Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Second Lieutenant

Unit:

1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

December 4th, 1943

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism while serving with the First Battalion, SECOND Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, during initial landings on enemy Japanese-controlled territory in the Solomon Islands Area, 7 to 9 August 1942. When reinforcements were urgently needed elsewhere, Second Lieutenant Smith and his company withdrew from positions on Florida Island where a dangerous mission had just been completed, and proceeded by water to assist in the attack on Gavutu and Tanambogo Islands. Although menaced by the withering blasts of hostile weapons, he attempted a landing but was forced by extremely heavy machine-gun fire to remain in the water for four hours before he was able to get ashore. With the small number of men still with him, Second Lieutenant Smith immediately obtained arms from friendly troops and, although suffering a painful wound, participated in a vigorous action which forced the enemy to retire. His aggressive fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty, maintained despite great personal risk, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Serial 1113 (SofN Signed December 4, 1943)