Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joseph B. Smith (ASN: 0-2019091), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Yonguyong, Korea, on 31 December 1950. The Regiment was attached by a numerically superior enemy force, estimated to be a division strength supported by intense artillery and mortar fire. At approximately 2000 hours, under cover of darkness, and by sheer force of numbers, without regard for their heavy losses from friendly fire. The enemy overran the outposts manned by Company I. With his outposts gone and the enemy threatening to outflank his positions, First Lieutenant Smith fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself to the intense enemy fire and went from position to position to encourage his men, direct their fire, and bolster the line wherever needed. When ordered to withdraw to more formidable positions, he remained in his exposed position and directed the movement of his men, fiercely contesting every inch of ground as they moved back. The fighting became so intense that he personally killed three fanatic enemy soldiers who had approached to within five yards of his position. By cleverly maneuvering his platoon in sections, he was able to withdraw them to the new lines of defenses without the loss of any lives. First Lieutenant Smith’s courageous actions and exemplary leadership reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army Infantry.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    Korean War

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 338 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Joseph B. Smith, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division in Korea. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.