The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Clyde E. Smith (MCSN: 1165484), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 March 1953. Although painfully wounded while leading his squad through intense enemy mortar and artillery fire in the initial assault on a vital enemy-held outpost located far forward of the main line of resistance, Corporal Smith fearlessly remained with his men and led them up the fire-swept hill into the hostile trenches, refusing medical aid in order to direct his men in the defense of the newly gained position. Weak from the loss of blood, he steadfastly continued to direct his men in the face of murderous hostile small arms fire until he collapsed from his wounds. By his exceptional courage, fortitude and indomitable spirit, Corporal Smith served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.