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 Private First Class Edwin R. Smith (ASN: 12072073), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 10 July 1943, on ***, five miles west of ****. Private First Class Smith, with a group of Paratroopers, assisted in driving the enemy approximately one-half mile back, at which time the enemy counter attacked with the aid of *** and *** tanks, heavy artillery, mortars, and small arms. Private First Class Smith, a radio operator who was unable to secure his radio from his lost equipment bundle, volunteered to act as an ammunition carrier. He carried ammunition for one of the gun crews throughout the entire attack until he was killed. Private First Class Smith displayed extreme courage and gallantry during this action as he was not a trained ammunition bearer, but a member of the **** Platoon. 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.