The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal James Eugene Smith (ASN: US-52054480), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Corporal Smith distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Pia-ri, Korea, on 17 September 1951. Manning defensive positions in the rugged terrain on Heartbreak Ridge, Corporal Smith’s platoon had repulsed numerous fanatical attacks. At approximately 2200 hours, wave after wave of wildly screaming hostile troops swarmed up the slope in a rampant suicidal charge and, despite staggering losses, pressed the assault with ruthless determination. The battle increased in tempo and fury and, with ammunition in critical supply, the defenders were forced to withdraw. Voluntarily remaining to cover the retrograde movement, Corporal Smith poured crippling fire into the ranks of the advancing foe until his ammunition was expended and then, using his bayonet and finally his bare fists, he fought with unflinching courage until he was mortally wounded. His valorous conduct and intrepid actions stemmed the onslaught, enabled his comrades to effect an orderly withdrawal and, when the strongpoint was regained, more than thirty-five enemy dead were found lying in the wake of his action. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Corporal Smith on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.