James Stuart Smith, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Stuart Smith, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Conning Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. ATLANTA (CL-51), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. With cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Commander Smith remained at his station and directed the course of the ship until he was mortally wounded. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)