(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Captain (Infantry) John Richard Smoak, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Smoak distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company of the 101st Airborne Division, and subsequently as Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of the XXIV Corps, in action against the enemy in 1968 and 1969. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Smoak, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.