The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Prentice K. Smith (ASN: 0-440461), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery B, 32d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. As artillery observer attached to the infantry, Lieutenant Smith learned of a concentration of enemy tanks and infantry. Despite heavy enemy shelling, he proceeded beyond our most advanced lines, established an observation post, and coolly directed the destruction of much enemy personnel and materiel. 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 Army.



