The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal John Smits (MCSN: 431566), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Peleliu in the Palau Group, on the night of 20-21 September 1944. Advancing relentlessly against fierce opposition as his platoon pushed the enemy southward down a narrow peninsula, Corporal Smits fought with determined aggressiveness throughout the day and, foreseeing the danger of an impending hostile barrage in the evening, quickly assembled a group from his platoon, fearlessly led them through the concentration of enemy fire and disposed them in a hostile attack. Defending his position with decisive valor, he succeeded in holding off the enemy troops until struck down and mortally wounded by shrapnel from a Japanese mortar. An indomitable fighter, Corporal Smits, by his resolute leadership, keen foresight and tenacious determination during a critical period in the bitter hostilities, enabled his company to hold its line throughout the night, and his undaunted courage and zealous devotion to duty in the face of fanatic resistance reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.