The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technical Sergeant Vincent Smith (ASN: 35015971), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 9 February 1945. To direct his mortars upon a battery of four Japanese 90-mm. mortars located near the Paco Railroad Station, Technical Sergeant Smith had to move forward to a small knoll where he was exposed to heavy enemy fire. There, despite this great risk, he calmly and accurately spotted hostile guns for two hours until they were completely knocked out. Later, Technical Sergeant Smith was mortally wounded while still directing his machine guns and mortars. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Smith, 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.