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 Captain (Infantry) Robert W. Smith (ASN: 0-1285651), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company K, 3d Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 24 to 26 December 1944, during the Ardennes offensive of the Wehrmacht. While engaged in fierce action near Kehmen, Luxembourg, Captain Smith made a lone reconnaissance under intense hostile small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire and established contact with a platoon that had become isolated. In the two days of bitter fighting that followed, he exhibited superb courage in leading his company in the face of powerful enemy resistance, and although painfully wounded, personally led an attack on the enemy-held town until he was again seriously wounded. Captain Smith’s heroic leadership was an inspiration to his men and his personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States, reflecting great credit upon himself, the 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.