Frank Smith graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1935. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.
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Frank Smith graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1935. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Frank Mcelhany Smith (NSN: 0-74862), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HAMMERHEAD (SS-364), during the FIFTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters from 10 March 1945 to 6 April 1945. Commander Smith’s skill and fearlessness in conducting two successful attacks against an enemy convoy of seven ships, five of which were escorts, was most noteworthy. In the early morning hours of 29 March 1945, in a flat sea and in bright moonlight, the HAMMERHEAD conducted a submerged attack. After being forced deep by the escorts, Commander Smith came back to periscope depth and sank an 1,800-ton destroyer with one hit. Despite the fact that the remaining escorts were alerted and were turning to attack his vessel, he fired three more torpedoes for one hit which seriously damaged a DE. Further attack was precluded by the ensuing severe depth charge attack, from which his ship fortunately escaped with damage. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men on his ship, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.