Martin M. Smith

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Martin M. Smith, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Ronssoy, France, September 29 – 30, 1918. Sergeant Smith exhibited exceptional gallantry and ability in leadership when after being severely shell shocked, he continued to direct the steady advance of his platoon under intense machine-gun and shell fire, with utter disregard for his personal safety. He continued with his platoon until the morning of September 13, when he collapsed as the result of shell shock and was evacuated to the rear.