Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Staff Sergeant

Unit:

1st Battalion, 1st Airlanding Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded for:

Operation Husky

Sicily 9/10 July 1943.
CQMS Smiths' glider landed away from the main body of the Battalion. The glider load moved off under the command of the Company Commander. On the move up an Italian position was encountered. This was attacked and captured. During the action the Company Commander was very severely wounded and Smith received injuries in the hand and head. He had his wounds dressed but insisted on accompanying the party to Battalion HQ. Throughout the remainder of the day he displayed great courage and devotion to duty in organising the defences of his Company under fire. He did not proceed to hospital until the embarkation of his unit took place from Syracuse. His presence and unfailing cheerfulness in the face of adversity contributed largely to the spirit of optimism which remained with his unit throughout the battle.