The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John D. Smith (ASN: RA-15280643), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 26 July 1950, Private First Class Smith was serving as a machine gunner in the vicinity of Tebu-dong, Korea, when the company position was subjected to a barrage of mortar fire followed by an attack in force. Although he suffered a serious head wound early in the action, Private First Class Smith remained in position and continued to deliver effective fire on the hostile forces. Despite profuse bleeding from his wound, Private First Class Smith declined evacuation until the company was ordered to displace to prepared positions. The gallant stand of Private First Class Smith enabled his company to inflict severe casualties on the enemy and provided a lasting inspiration for his comrades. His actions reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Army.