The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Fred B. Smith, Jr., United States Navy, for gallantry in action as officer in charge of small boats attached to the LST 314 during the assault on the west coast of Italy during 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Smith assumed command when he learned that the boat wave commander had been seriously wounded. He assembled the lost and disorganized craft and landed the troops on schedule. 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.