The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Arthur E. Smith, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 20 January 1970 while serving as a pilot with Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Lieutenant Smith was taking part in recovery operations for a helicopter crew, and their condition was not known. When he reached the enemy infested recovery area, Lieutenant Smith began firing the craft’s organic weapons, attempting to suppress the insurgent fire, while he searched for the downed helicopter. On this second pass over the area the downed pilot was seen waving his arms in a bomb crater. Lieutenant Smith and his Aircraft Commander elected to attempt a rescue, despite the intense enemy ground fire. As the craft began its descent Lieutenant Smith directed his mini-gun fire at the heaviest concentration of enemy fire. When they landed, Lieutenant Smith aided the wounded pilot aboard. Lieutenant Smith still maintained his suppressive fire upon the enemy positions while the craft ascended and took the pilot to safety. Upon returning to the contact site, he directed his Commanders rocket fire as well as those of other gunships. The enemy fighting and anti-aircraft positions were soon silenced. First Lieutenant Smith’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.