The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Albert A. Smith (ASN: 0-1304132), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 July 1944, in France. First Lieutenant Smith was commanding an element of an infantry force assigned the mission of capturing an enemy-fortified town. The attacking force was pinned down by heavy enemy mortar, artillery, and small arms fire, and the enemy counterattacked with two tanks. With complete disregard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Smith advanced into an open field in the face of the hostile fire, and with a bazooka routed the approaching tanks single-handed. This courageous deed materially aided in the eventual capitulation of the enemy-held town. The personal bravery and unselfish devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Smith reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.