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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Robert A. Smith (MCSN: 0-17767), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Depot Company A, Branch Number Three, Fourth Base Depot, First Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, 1 October 1943. When aerial bombs hit and set afire an LST unloading on the beach, Second Lieutenant Smith went aboard the vessel and, despite the danger from gasoline and ammunition explosions, entered the burning hold to salvage medical supplies for the care of the wounded. Rendering first aid until medical assistance arrived, he assisted in the evacuation of the wounded and participated in salvage operations. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Smith and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    July 24, 1944
    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 00420

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert A. Smith (MCSN: 0-17767), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader in a Rifle Platoon of Company F, Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, 24 July 1944. When darkness settled before his company could reorganize and make contact with adjacent units following the day’s offensive action over extremely rough terrain covered with dense undergrowth, First Lieutenant Smith voluntarily led a small patrol approximately four hundred yards through enemy-infested territory in the face of heavy hostile fire to contact the adjacent company. Then, returning to his platoon, he placed his men within fifteen yards of the enemy lines in order to close the existing gap, enabling his company to hold its position during the night and launch a successful attack the following morning. His courageous initiative, determination and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.