The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Soldier’s Medal (Posthumously) to Corporal George Clayton Smith (ASN: RA-19303603), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, on 18 September 1950 in the vicinity of Sindong, Korea. On that date the advance elements of his company had reached the east bank of the Naktong River and had been ordered to secure a bridgehead on the opposite bank. Corporal Smith unhesitatingly volunteered to organize a patrol from his squad for the mission of swimming to the opposite shore and securing boats in which troops could cross the river. Fully aware than any enemy action might be disastrous to them, the group moved into the cold and swiftly-flowing river. In mid-stream, one of the men was seized by cramps and, unable to move further and at the mercy of the swift current and, with the assistance of a comrade, succeeded in bringing the stricken man to a place of safety on the west bank of the river. The selfless action of Corporal Smith in going to the aid of his comrade at the risk of his own life reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.