The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal [then Private First Class] Elliot J. Smelser (ASN: 17016399), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Battery B, 59th Coast Artillery Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action at Corregidor, Philippine Islands, on 24 April 1942. When Battery Crockett, to which he was assigned, was being shelled continuously by enemy siege artillery and despite the fact that the installation was on fire, enemy shells were bursting in the various compartments of the batter, and the majority of the members of the battery had retreated from the area to take more adequate cover, Corporal Smelser stood his ground. Voluntarily, and at the risk of his life, he rescued the remaining helpless wounded and, with the aid of two other volunteers, carried them to safety. This act of gallantry was an example to all, which spurred the men to greater efforts in resisting the attacks on Corregidor. Corporal Smelser’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.