(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 Sergeant First Class Christopher J. Smith, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 25 May 2010, in Afghanistan. Sergeant First Class Smith repeatedly exposed himself to direct and accurate enemy fire while positioning himself between the enemy and fellow soldiers to save their lives. His audacity, lethal fires, and tactical prowess were key to the survival of his detachment. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.