Stanton T. Smith

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel Stanton T. Smith, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry in action on 25 July 1950, by volunteering to lead a flight of F-80 type aircraft on a hazardous night intruder mission from an airbase in Japan against an enemy strong point in Korea. With only standard fighter aircraft instruments Colonel Smith led his flight through below marginal weather direct to the target area at Taejon, Korea, where he aggressively attacked the surprised enemy’s supply center and troop concentrations. Determined to exploit this advantage to the fullest, Colonel Smith pressed repeated attacks against the enemy despite increasingly accurate automatic weapons fire, withdrawing only when his ammunition was totally expended. Again demonstrating superior airmanship, this officer led his flight through mountainous terrain direct to its home base of operations. This highly successful mission, the first night combat mission by jet type aircraft in the history of the Air Force, was accomplished at great risk and disregard for personal safety. The outstanding courage, determination and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Smith on this occasion reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.