The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Sergeant First Class George B. Smeltzer, Jr., United States Army, for heroism in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 March 1971 Sergeant First Class Smeltzer distinguished himself by valorous achievement while serving as a member of Company A, 27th Engineer Battalion (Combat), while his unit was continuing upgrade and repairs of the Khe Sanh airstrip and the adjacent assault airstrip. While effecting repairs on the assault airstrip, the primary airstrip was hit with a barrage of enemy artillery. Immediately Sergeant Smeltzer moved his platoon to the damaged airstrip. While effecting emergency repairs to the primary airstrip, he came under additional artillery fire. Disregarding his own personal safety and exposing himself continuously to hostile fire, Sergeant Smeltzer maintained his position and continued to lead his platoon in the repair of a total of four artillery craters on this critical re-supply airstrip. Sergeant Smeltzer’s intrepid determination and professionalism without regard for his own personal safety was highly instrumental in the successful completion of this mission in a minimum of time. His valorous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal to Sergeant First Class George B. Smeltzer, Jr., United States Army, for outstandingly meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. During the period 13 January 1971 to 19 December 1971 he consistently manifested exemplary professionalism and initiative in obtaining outstanding results. His rapid assessment and solution of numerous problems inherent in a combat environment greatly enhanced the allied effectiveness against a determined and aggressive enemy. Despite many adversities, he invariably performed his duties in a resolute and efficient manner. Energetically applying his sound judgment and extensive knowledge, he has contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the United States mission in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.