Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry), [then Captain] John F. Smith (ASN: 0-316592), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 8 July 1944 in the vicinity of ***, France, Major Smith’s battalion had been given an order to attack and seize an objective. Major Smith in command of the battalion vigorously pushed it forward until his objectives was taken. The enemy immediately counterattacked and Major Smith, disregarding his own personal safety in an area swept by enemy small arms and artillery fire, personally went from unit to unit encouraging his men by personal example to maintain their position. Although the enemy moved in from both flanks, cutting the battalion off for more than twenty-four hours, Major Smith’s personal example and firm determination withstood six enemy counterattacks against the position which were beaten back and the position maintained until reinforcements arrived and communications were reestablished. The gallant action of Major Smith is a fine example of military leadership, determination and courage.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    359th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    90th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 10, 1945
    Headquarters, THIRD U.S. Army, General Orders No. 123 (May 31, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) John F. Smith (ASN: 0-316592), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Luxembourg, on 10 January 1945. On that date, Colonel Smith led his battalion in an attack against strong enemy positions near Trentlehof, Luxembourg. When the advance was halted by intense fir e, Colonel Smith boldly charged forward alone, mounted a damaged tank destroyer and with deadly accuracy manned the machine gun mounted on the vehicle. Then, ignoring the hail of fire centered upon him he continued forward, reconnoitering enemy positions and directing artillery concentrations. Returning to his troops he led the battalion forward in a brilliant maneuver and seized the objective. The extraordinary heroism Lieutenant Colonel Smith displayed, and his inspiring leadership and courageous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.