The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Corporal John J. Smith (ASN: US-55124421), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States as a member of Company F, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, on 10 April 1952 in the vicinity of Chat-Kol, Korea. On that date, Corporal Smith, a Machine Gunner, observed an enemy mortar round hit the position of a fellow soldier. Without hesitation, he and a comrade went to the position to investigate the extent of the damage. Upon arrival, they discovered that the explosion had set fire to a box of hand grenades. As his comrade handed the burning box of grenades to Corporal Smith, he immediately threw the contents clear of danger. Upon entering the position a second time, Corporal Smith and his friend sighted a wounded man lying helplessly on the ground. After calling for medical aid, he and his comrade, with utter disregard for their own safety which was being threatened by burning ammunition and enemy mortar fire, continued to give the injured man assistance. Corporal Smith’s courageous actions enabled medical aidmen to reach the wounded soldier without risking their lives near the fire. The heroism displayed by Corporal Smith reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.