The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Gerald Jay Smith (MCSN: 354042), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader in an Infantry Platoon of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 and 29 November 1950. When a numerically superior hostile force launched an aggressive attack against his sector, Private First Class Smith, fearlessly exposed himself to the intense, accurate fire to direct his team in repelling the onslaught. Later, when the enemy launched a second attack, he refused to be evacuated despite a severe arm wound and, staunchly remaining with his men, led them over treacherous, ice-covered terrain in a maneuver to seize a heavily fortified hostile entrenchment. Submitting to evacuation, he insisted on returning to his platoon immediately after his wounds were dressed and, assuming command of a squad, led his men against the enemy until his company was relieved. His bold and inspiring actions, courageous leadership and unrelenting devotion to duty against heavy odds were contributing factors in the success achieved by his company, and reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Smith and the United States Naval Service.