The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Willis E. Smith (ASN: 7004602), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily during the period from March through August 1943. When the radio at a forward observation post was destroyed by enemy action, Private Smith, despite direct artillery fire, assisted in laying a wire line from a rear radio to this post and thereby enabled the continuation of effective artillery support for our forces. 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.