The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Arlo D. Smith (MCSN: 890772), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Platoon Runner serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, from 15 June to 9 July 1944. When his company was pinned down on the final objective by a well-concealed emplacement at close range, Private First Class Smith unhesitatingly moved from his covered position to return Japanese fire which was causing heavy casualties. Mortally wounded in this heroic action, Private First Class Smith by his courageous fighting spirit and zealous efforts, had contributed essentially to the ultimate success of our vital mission on this strategically important island, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout numerous hazardous missions was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.