The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Denford R. Smith (MCSN: 1350597), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 July 1953. Serving as pointman for a patrol moving forward from an outpost which was under heavy enemy mortar and artillery fire, Private First Class Smith discovered an enemy ambush and immediately delivered a heavy volume of fire, exposing and breaking up the ambush position. Although knocked to the ground by the explosion of an enemy hand grenade, he quickly regained his feet and continued to fire his weapon with deadly accuracy. Realizing the dangerous plight of the patrol, he directed his men to return to friendly lines and, fearlessly remaining in position, held back the overwhelming enemy force with accurate covering fire until the patrol reached safety. Mortally wounded while carrying out this heroic action, Private First Class Smith, by his intrepid fighting spirit, marked courage and selfless efforts in behalf of others, was directly responsible for the safe withdrawal of his comrades and aided materially in the success of the mission. His unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.