The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Preston R. Smith (ASN: 6977340), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to May 1943. Despite intense enemy machine gun fire, Corporal Smith, leader of a 60-mm. mortar squad, skillfully directed the fire of his mortar and completely destroyed several enemy machine gun and mortar emplacements, thereby expediting the rapid advance of his unit. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Preston R. Smith (ASN: 6977340), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943 During an attack against heavily fortified enemy positions, Sergeant Smith exposed himself to the enemy and effectively directed fire on enemy mortar emplacements. Later, he again exposed himself and aided a wounded soldier, evacuating him to a place of safety. Sergeant Smith’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.