The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Herbert M. Smith, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 December 1942, during Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. While commanding an Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Smith, without regard for his personal safety, went to the most forward positions of the units on his right flank and encouraged the troops to continue an attack which had encountered heavy automatic weapons fire from prepared and strongly defended enemy positions. He continually exposed himself to enemy sniper and grenade fire as he moved among the men and directed their advance. His courageous personal example and his energetic efforts were an inspiration to the men of his command. He was wounded in this action by fragments from a rifle grenade. Lieutenant Colonel Smith’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.