Ray E. Smith’s Silver Star citation

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL to

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS RAY E SMITH, USMC.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on December 29, 1943. When the troops had expended all available hand grenades during a fierce assault and an emergency call was made to the rear for additional ammunition, Private First Class Smith promptly loaded his jeep with hand grenades and drove within fifty yards of the enemy positions. Despite hostile machine-gun and rifle fire, he coolly distributed grenades to the troops and, returning to the ammunition dump, twice performed this daring and hazardous mission, Private First Class Smith’s courageous initiative and selfless conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy

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Born: Greensboro, Md…. Home of record: Smyrna, Del.