The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Ronald S. Smith (MCSN: 2438585), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning 19 March 1969, Lance Corporal Smith’s squad was conducting a patrol near Fire Support Base Neville in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under intense fire from a well-concealed, platoon-sized hostile force employing grenades, claymore mines, small arms, and automatic weapons. In the initial burst of fire, the Marines sustained five casualties and the remainder of the squad became pinned down. Realizing the urgent need for suppressive fire, Lance Corporal Smith unhesitatingly maneuvered forward to a dangerously exposed position between friendly lines and the enemy and, fearlessly delivering accurate and effective fire upon the hostile emplacements with his M-60 machine guns enabled his companions to move the injured men to cover. When a hostile grenade exploded near him, knocking him to the ground and causing fragmentation wounds, he quickly recovered and resolutely continued his aggressive efforts. After depleting his supply of ammunition, he boldly rushed across the fire-swept terrain to obtain additional rounds and, returning to his hazardous position, continued to fire upon the hostile soldiers. When a second grenade exploded near him and he sustained a serious injury, he steadfastly ignored his painful wounds and delivered fire upon the enemy until they were routed. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of his wounded comrades. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lance Corporal Smith upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.