The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Nathan E. Smith, Jr. (MCSN: 809316), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 3 July 1944. With his platoon pinned down and several men severely wounded during an attack against a heavily fortified hostile ridge and with Japanese riflemen attempting to infiltrate our lines, Private First Class Smith immediately proceeded to a strategic firing position where several men manning the weapon had been killed or wounded and occupied the position despite the enemy’s merciless barrage. Fighting a gallant battle against tremendous odds, he poured a steady stream of fire against the hostile troops, inflicting heavy casualties and denying the approach to the enemy. By his daring initiative, outstanding fortitude and valiant fighting spirit, maintained at great personal risk, Private First Class Smith contributed essentially to the success of the engagement, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon the United States Naval Service.