The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Chester Lincoln Smith (MCSN: 500676), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Leader of a Fire Team, serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 April 1945. With his company pinned down by intense and devastating fire from Japanese gun emplacements during the final assault on Mount Yaetake, Corporal Smith disregarded the order to withdraw and, skillfully maneuvered his fire team forward to a vantage point, fearlessly exposed himself to the savage barrage and directed their accurate, powerful fire against the hostile positions, thereby neutralizing the enemy fire and enabling his company to continue the advance. Instantly killed while carrying out his hazardous mission, Corporal Smith, by his daring initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great courage in the face of deadly opposition, had contributed directly to the ultimate conquest of this vital enemy stronghold, and his heroic conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.