Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    136th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    33d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    March 19, 1945

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 139 (1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Willis Smith (ASN: 38471253), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, 33d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Bue Bue Mountain, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 19 March 1945. Two of Private Smith’s comrades were instantly killed and he himself was painfully wounded by heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire during the attack on his company on an enemy hill position. Private First Class Smith picked himself up and, far in advance of the main body of troops and without covering fire, advanced over the rocky open terrain toward the enemy. When he was five yards away, he threw two grenades directly into a Japanese position and destroyed it. Despite his serious wound, he declined to leave for treatment and instead joined his comrades in the forefront of the attack on another hill position. Wounded again by intense enemy fire, he was returned to the rear. By his heroic deeds and his willingness to close with the enemy and destroy him, Private Smith contributed materially to the successful completion of the mission of the 136th Infantry Regiment. Private First Class Smith’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 33d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.