Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division "Thunderbird", U.S. Army (Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division "Thunderbird", U.S. Army)

James O. Smith, 0397928, Captain, Infantry, Headquarters Company First Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services in Sicily and Italy from 10 July 1943 to 15 January 1944. When his battalion was disorganized during the landings in Sicily, Captain Smith, as Battalion Adjutant and Commanding Officer of a Battalion Headquarters Company, personally assembled stray elements of his unit and proceeded to organize them for immediate operation. Later when his own command was functioning effectively, Captain Smith was given the assignment of leading a rifle company in several engagements against the enemy in Sicily. In addition to his regular duties, he further displayed outstanding ability by leading reconnaissance missions and assisting in the adjustment of artillery fire during action in Italy. The excellent record which Captain Smith established in the performance of his normal duties, and the versatility he displayed in the assumption of other duties, earned for him the respect and admiration of the entire Regiment. Entered service from Okemah, Oklahoma.