The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Robert E. Smith (NSN: 0-104466), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Ensign Smith repeatedly attacked with courage, skill, and determination the attacking enemy planes in the face of heavy enemy fighter opposition. His actions resulted in the certain destruction of two enemy aircraft and contributed materially to the defense of our force. Ensign Smith’s outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.