The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Eugene E. Smith (ASN: RA-39327069), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 and 27 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea. During that period Sergeant Smith was commanding a rifle platoon which was deployed on a high ridge with the mission of defending the battalion’s left flank. On the night of 26 November 1950, the enemy launched a series of frenzied assaults in an effort to overrun the platoon. Skillfully maneuvering his troops and employing his fire power to the best advantage, he repulsed two hostile onslaughts with heavy casualties. On the third attempt the enemy isolated his platoon from the remainder of the company. Throughout that night, he repeatedly exposed himself to the intense enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire as he directed the successful defense of his perimeter against the continuing enemy assaults. On the night of 27 November 1950 the enemy renewed their efforts to destroy his position. Displaying a complete contempt for the overwhelming odds against him, he tenaciously held his men in position, fighting so fiercely that the enemy at length shifted the brunt of their attack against another portion of the battalion line. During the night, his company was forced to withdraw after its flanks had been exposed. Voluntarily remaining in position, he directed his men as they laid down a deadly screen of fire to cover the withdrawal. He then reorganized his platoon and, under his courageous leadership, brought his men through enemy infested terrain to the safety of friendly lines with a minimum of losses. The gallantry and high degree of leadership displayed by Sergeant Smith reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service..