(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Private William Richard Smith (ASN: 15098049), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Ball Turret Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 64th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, on or about 21 May 1943. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private 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 Air Forces.