The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Bradish Johnson Smith, II (ASN: 0-34049), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division. On 9 January 1945, at Hatten, France, upon observing that a platoon of the reserve company of his battalion was withdrawing in response to a command in English given by German soldiers, Major Smith proceeded through intense enemy artillery and mortar fire to the platoon and led them forward to their attack area. As a result of his leadership the platoon rejoined its company and the enemy was halted at the edge of town. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Smith, 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.