Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Sergeant

Unit:

No. 3 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

January 27th, 1944

For devotion to duty and great powers of leadership under fire. During the action at Termoli on 5th October 1943 this NCO commanded a section of 10men exposed on the forward slopes of a hill covering (hole) and dead ground in front.The section (hole) under heavy shell fire. Sgt Smith inspired confidence in his section by his own example of coolness.They remained in this exposed position for 6 hours though casualties were being innflicted. When given the order to withdraw 400 yds to a new position he brought back his men without loss,finding the only covered line available. This manoeuvre was carried out under heavy mortar fire. He placed his section and gave the order to dig in. They were then shelled and machine gunned by four MK IV tanks for six hours. it was through sgt Smith's fine and courageous example that his section stood their ground with confidence and cheerfulness.he was alive to every changing situation and had complete disregard for his own personal safety.