The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Clarence L. Smith (ASN: 20846743), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 158th Regimental Combat Team (Separate), attached to the 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the Wakde-Sarmi Area, Dutch New Guinea, on 24 May 1944. Staff Sergeant Smith was serving as communications guide of a rifle platoon, when it was pinned down during an attack on a heavily fortified position. Under enemy fire, he reconnoitered their position and oriented the support platoon for its attack. When this failed, he guided one of our tanks in an attempt against the enemy. Finding this insufficient, he directed assaulting flame throwers and succeeded in destroying the enemy position. Later, although exhausted and without food for 16 hours, he volunteered to lead a patrol to assist a platoon that was under counterattack. In this action he was killed. Staff Sergeant Smith’s heroic conduct and outstanding leadership were responsible for the success of his platoon, and his gallantry and devotion to duty were an inspiration to the command. Staff Sergeant Smith’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.