The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Richard Albert Smith (ASN: 0-1703072), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 December 1944, in ****, Belgium. Second Lieutenant Smith, a platoon leader, Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, was leading his company’s advance elements toward the heavily defended town of **** when his unit came under withering mortar and machine gun fire, pining it down. He boldly and calmly organized his firing line, exposing himself with utter disregard of his personal safety, until two machine guns were silenced and the enemy had suffered many casualties. Later that night, Second Lieutenant Smith was with the leading platoon when the attack was resumed. Although the platoon suffered extremely heavy casualties, he organized the remaining men and personally led a charge which overran another enemy strongpoint, destroying two armored vehicles and another two machine guns. Hastily reorganizing his platoon, which was now cut to eleven men, he led his men on still another charge against two houses and a flak wagon. While exhorting his men onward through a hail of enemy fire, he was killed. The few remaining men were so inspired by his unsurpassed heroism and exemplary leadership that they overran this objective in the face of overwhelming odds. His conduct during this entire action will be a source of lasting inspiration to all who were associated with him. 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.