The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Abbott M. Smith, Jr., United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while serving as Combat Wing Bombardier on a mission over enemy occupied Europe, 16 August 1943. The formation encountered determined enemy opposition on approaching the target and during the bombing run. In spite of fierce attacks by enemy fighters, Lieutenant Smith, knowing the bombing effort of the entire unit depended on his accuracy, skillfully released his bombs directly on the target. The fact that widespread destruction was wrought on important enemy installations is directly attributable to the courage and technical skill of Lieutenant Smith. His actions on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.