Charles F. Smith, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles F. Smith, Jr. (1137771), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 17 July 1953. Serving as a rifleman, Private First Class Smith displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. The patrol while operating far forward of the main line of resistance, was preparing to establish a base of fire when the group was suddenly attacked from the front and flanks by a numerically superior enemy force. In the ensuing action the patrol leader, assistant patrol leader and radioman were seriously injured leaving the patrol temporarily without a leader or communications. Private First Class Smith exhibited remarkable resourcefulness, as he picked up the radio, hastily repaired the aerial and informed the company commander of the situation. With exceptional skill, he accurately called in friendly mortar fire on the enemy enabling the patrol to reorganize. Observing that a proper defense was still needed, he completely organized the patrol in a perimeter defense and then assigned members of the squad to evacuation teams. When the patrol was finally ready to disengage, he was in complete control and skillfully led them back to friendly lines. Upon returning, he discovered that four members of the patrol were missing and unhesitatingly volunteered to take a detail back to the endangered area. His determined aggressiveness and courageous actions were directly responsible for bringing the missing man back to the main line of resistance. Private First Class Smith’s gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.