The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Robert G. Smith (MCSN: 528121), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 24 February 1945. Braving hostile small-arms and mortar fire, Private First Class Smith voluntarily led a tank through friendly lines into enemy-held territory and skillfully directed the tank’s fire against a hostile position which had halted the advance of his company. Constantly exposed to the rain of enemy fire, he continued to maneuver the vehicle among the Japanese positions and aided greatly in eliminating the enemy strong point, thereby making it possible for his company to move forward and continue the advance. By his bravery, aggressive fighting spirit and initiative in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Smith upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.