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 G. Smith (ASN: 36750551), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 10 January 1945, at Hatten, France. With orders to hold his post at all costs, Private Smith was stationed at a window in the house used as the battalion command post. Normally armed with a rifle, he had acquired an automatic rifle during the previous action. Early in the morning when enemy infantry attacked the house supported by fire from their tanks, Private Smith was wounded in the face, right arm and both legs by shell fragments, but opened fire so accurately as to disrupt the assault. Because of his wounds he was no longer able to load and fire the automatic rifle but repulsed a second attack later by throwing hand grenades. Shortly afterwards the house was evacuated and Private Smith was one of the last to leave. He maintained his position with extreme valor in the face of determined attack, although severely wounded, thus proving to be an inspiration and an example to his comrades.