Roland P. Smythers’ Silver Star citation

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

SERGEANT ROLAND P. SMYTHERS, USMC.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a squad leader in the First Marine Division during combat against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, Western New Britain, January 7, 1944. When intense fire from well-concealed enemy positions retarded the advance of his squad, Sergeant Smythers courageously made his way forward in a valiant attempt to locate the hostile machine-gun emplacements. Maintaining an exposed position, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, he succeeded in accomplishing his hazardous mission before he was fatally wounded by enemy fire. Sergeant Smythers’ inspiring leadership and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”

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

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Born: 14 July 1919 in Woodlawn, Va…. Home of record: Hillsville, Va…. Assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division… Two brothers served in the Army during World War II: Lyman (Pvt.) was killed in Italy in 1944 and Joseph was a lieutenant colonel… Interred at Arlington National Cemetery