The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander (MC) Francis K. Smith, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as Senior Medical Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. When the FRANKLIN was struck by enemy bombs which caused tremendous fires and explosions among a large number of fully armed and fueled planes both on the flight deck and in the hangar, Commander Smith established an emergency sick bay and personally treated the wounded, in the face of constant explosions, raging fires and enemy air attacks. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Commander Smith saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.