The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward R. Smith (ASN: 20250035), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 27th Infantry Division as Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 17 June 1944. When the platoon sergeant of the platoon of which Private First Class Smith was a member was wounded and lying in an exposed position in an enemy fire lane, Private First Class Smith, with utter disregard for his own safety, left his covered position and advanced to render first aid. Although fired upon several times, he refused to take cover and continued to assist the wounded man. Private First Class Smith was wounded, and later died of the wound while in this position.