Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    9th Marines

    Division:

    3d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    March 15, 1945

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 34671 (January 10, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Herbert G. Smith, Jr. (MCSN: 0-26129), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company L. Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. When his company became pinned down by intense hostile machine-gun fire while engaged in a patrol action in a vitally strategic sector, First Lieutenant Smith boldly moved forward of the front lines in a daring lone reconnaissance across the unfamiliar terrain. Disregarding the savage fire directed against him, he dauntlessly continued on his perilous mission until fatally struck down by an enemy bullet. By his daring initiative, valiant fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Smith contributed in large measure to the ultimate success of the mission and served as an inspiration to the men of his command, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.