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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private John Francis Smith (MCSN: 78642), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Machine-Gun Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., in action near St. Etienne, France, 4 October 1918. During a heavy enemy counter-barrage Private Smith was engaged as a runner. In the execution of his duty he displayed exceptional bravery, carrying messages through intense shell fire, falling severely wounded after his fourth journey.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 4, 1918

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private John F. Smith (MCSN: 78642), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the Machine-Gun Company, 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action near St. Etienne, France, 4 October 1918. During a heavy enemy counter-barrage Private Smith was engaged as a runner. In the execution of his duty he displayed exceptional bravery, carrying messages through intense shell fire, falling severely wounded after his fourth journey.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    Fifth Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 2 – 9, 1918
    Citation Orders, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D. 1918), Private John F. Smith (MCSN: 78642), United States Marine Corps, is cited (Posthumously) by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Private Smith distinguished himself while serving with Machine-Gun Company, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces at St. Etienne, France, 2 to 10 October 1918.