The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Robert Lee Smith, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman with the 1st Marine Raider Battalion. Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Smith continuously administered to and alleviated the suffering of his injured comrades during the action against Japanese on Guadalcanal, 12 – 13, 1942, and while exposed to fire from rifles, machine guns, and hand grenades in the hands of the enemy. Shortly after daybreak on the morning of 13 September, while rushing to the aid of a wounded man, he was struck down by Japanese fire. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.