The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Clyde Dean Smith (MCSN: 0-92575), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine All Weather Attack Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-FOUR (VMA(AW)-224), embarked in U.S.S. CORAL SEA (CVA043). On 9 April 1972, Major Smith, as pilot of an Intruder launched on a single aircraft armed reconnaissance mission over Laos. While attacking an enemy truck convoy, his aircraft received a mortal hit from enemy fire which forced him to eject. For the next three days Major Smith remained deep behind enemy lines in the vicinity of a strong point guarding a major supply route junction. Despite the proximity of enemy troops, Major Smith repeatedly disregarded his own safety as he employed his survival radio to direct highly successful air strikes against anti-aircraft installations which surrounded him. Major Smith’s coolness, courage and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.