The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Jason E. Smith, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Company Commander, Bravo Company, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, FIRST Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM II on 13 April 2004. Captain Smith led a rescue convoy through Al Fallujah to reach elements of Bravo Company that were surrounded by enemy forces and requiring support to evacuate casualties. Lacking accurate location information, Captain Smith used smoke from a burning amphibious assault vehicle to guide his convoy to the stranded platoon. When the rescue convoy slowed due to increased enemy fire, Captain Smith dismounted his vehicle, raced on foot to the front of the column, and led the convoy to the platoon. Disregarding his own personal safety and while exposed to enemy fire, Captain Smith returned fire and coordinated counter-attacks on enemy militia. As he reached the surrounded platoon, Captain Smith assessed the situation, organized a strong defensive perimeter around the platoon, and supervised the evacuation of casualties. Discovering remains of a deceased Marine inside a disabled vehicle, he ordered tanks to tow the vehicle back to the base camp. Captain Smith then coordinated the unit’s withdrawal, traveling on foot at the rear of the column until all Marines crossed friendly lines. Captain Smith’s calm demeanor and forceful character bolstered the fighting spirit of his Marines. By his bold leadership, wise judgment, and dedication to duty, Captain Smith reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.