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 Walter G. Smith (ASN: 39909221), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company I, *** Infantry Regiment, 95th Infantry Division, from 9 November 1944 to 11 November 1944, in the vicinity of Maizicros-Les-Metz, France. During an attack by Company I against a Chateau near Maizicros-Los-Metz, Private Smith, a rifleman, was severely wounded by enemy shell fragments. Taking cover in a shell hole, Private Smith refrained from calling to his comrades for aid, since he feared that they would come under dangerous enemy fire in attempting to reach him. On the following morning, Private Smith observed a German machine gun firing on his company and, despite his grievous wounds, opened such destructive fire on it that the weapon was silenced. After his heroic action, Private Smith remained in his position, helpless, for another full day until evacuated by litter bearers. At no time did he request aid. Private Smith’s inspired gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.