The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) William R. Smith (ASN: 0-1296312), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 393d Infantry Regiment, 99th Infantry Division, on 12 March 1945, in Germany. While proceeding through dense woods in front of the town, Captain Smith’s men received heavy machine gun and mortar fire. With no thought of his own safety, he went forward, located the enemy positions, and directed their liquidation by flanking action. He then made the reconnaissance for the assault on the town, which was held by an SS Company, and personally led his men in the successful attack which took the town. The courage and leadership displayed by Captain Smith merits the highest praise.