The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Alvin E. Smith (MCSN: 324089), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader of Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces during the assault of a strongly defended hill position overlooking the battalion command post in Korea on 28 November 1950. When his unit was subjected to intense hostile automatic weapons, grenade and small arms fire and both the platoon leader and platoon sergeant were wounded, Sergeant Smith, although painfully wounded himself bravely refused medical attention and, assuming command, led the men forward through the heavy fire in a daring assault against the enemy. By his skillful leadership and fortitude he served to inspire the platoon in completely routing the entrenched hostile force and in driving the enemy from the strategic ground. Persevering in his task, he refused to seek aid for his wound until he had directed the establishment of a defense line. His marked courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.