Harry E. Smith

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harry E. Smith (36845273), Private, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Combat Command B, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 2 April 1945. Private Smith voluntarily drove his one-quarter ton vehicle to within ten yards of advancing enemy to rescue a comrade pinned down by enemy fire. Withdrawing under tank canon fire, he halted to pick up his commanding officer who was covering the rescue with sub-machinegun fire. He again halted to rescue a wounded soldier. His vehicle was struck by a tank shell. Private Smith was wounded. Despite his wounds, Private Smith extricated his vehicle and returned to his duties. His determination, devotion to duty and actions under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Military Service.