The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Walter Joseph Smyk, Jr. (MCSN: 658168), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Gunner of a 3.5-in Rocket Launcher while attached to Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 30 November 1950. Assigned the mission of engaging hostile positions with his rocket launcher when his company was subjected to heavy hostile small arms, machine gun and mortar fire, Corporal Smyk moved through the intense fire and located a position from which he succeeded in destroying several enemy mortar emplacements. When a hostile machine gun opened fire on his company and inflicted numerous casualties, he voluntarily crawled forward through intense fire to a position where he could observe and bring his fire to bear upon the machine gun. After firing four rounds and temporarily silencing the hostile gun, he was preparing to fire another round when he was mortally wounded by enemy small arms fire. By his outstanding courage, daring initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout, Corporal Smyk contributed materially to the successful defense of his company’s position, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.