The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant [then Specialist Fourth Class] Patrick Edward Smith, Jr. (ASN: US-51832197), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action. Sergeant Smith distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 26 November 1968, while serving as a squad leader with Company A, 5th Battalion (Airmobile), 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during a search and clear mission in Quan An Loc Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit came into heavy contact with a well fortified enemy force, Specialist Smith and several other men were seriously wounded. Disregarding his wounds, Specialist Smith exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he dragged the other men to safety. Only after he was sure that all his wounded comrades were retrieved did Specialist Smith allow himself to be medically evacuated. The medical evacuation helicopter was shot down shortly after take off, however, and Specialist Smith was fatally injured. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.