The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John L. Smith (ASN: 0-1172289), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the *** Field Artillery Battalion, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy 17 December 1944, in Germany. Lieutenant Smith on his own initiative advanced to within 200 yards of the enemy, entrenched on the reverse slope of a hill, in order to adjust artillery fire upon them. His heroic disregard for his own personal safety in adjusting his own artillery fire on target which also imperiled himself, and his refusal to withdraw when intense enemy mortar and artillery fire as well as friendly artillery fire being adjusted on the same target, commenced falling on his position, demonstrated exceptional gallantry, and was responsible for destroying the enemy delaying the advance of our forces. His gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.