The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Eddie Louis Smith, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam, on 4 October 1964. As an Advisor to a battalion of the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam, Sergeant Smith was accompanying the friendly forces back to their home station when they were suddenly ambushed and greatly outnumbered by an enemy element. Although he was wounded during the initial violent attack that was directed in the proximity of his position, he disregarded his own personal safety by moving from position to position among the friendly troops to organize their defense operations. Despite the overwhelming onslaught, he displayed fortitude, courage, and determination, and continued his advisory efforts until mortally wounded. Sergeant Smith’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.