The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade John E. Smithson (ASN: 35725897), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 October 1944, in Germany. During an attack toward enemy lines, Technician Fifth Grade Smithson observed that a friendly tank had received a hit from enemy guns and had began to burn. Parking his vehicle out of the field of fire, Technician Fifth Grade Smithson and two companions started running toward the burning tank to attempt to rescue the occupants. Heavy enemy machine gun and artillery fire caused his companions to withdraw, but Technician Fifth Grade Smithson was undaunted and ran the gauntlet of fire to enter the burning tank which he drove out of the enemy field of fire. As a direct result of his valor, Technician Fifth Grade Smithson saved the life of on e of the tank crew who had been severely wounded during the action. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Smithson, 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.