The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Shipfitter Third Class Harold Eugene Smith (NSN: 3563660), United States Navy, for gallantry in action in warning a comrade who was on watch in the hold that an air attack was imminent and urging him to come topside to a safe place aboard the U.S.S. CHICAGO (CA-29) during an attack against Japanese forces in the South Pacific area on 29 – 30 January 1943. Shipfitter Third Class Smith knew that any further damage to his ship would inevitably mean her destruction and acted upon his own initiative to warn his comrade, thereby undoubtedly saving the latter’s life. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.