First Sgt. James W. Smith has been
awarded the bronze star with oak leaf cluster for his heroic conduct
in action on July 4, 1944, near France. This information was
received by his wife, Mrs. James W. Smith of 1408 Happy Valley
Street this week.The citation reads as follows: During an attack
on a heavily defended hill. Smith volunteered to remove and evacuate
casualties lying in a field exposed to enemy fire. His company had
suffered considerable casualties in men and medical personnel. Smith
worked with increasing efforts for eleven hours under heavy enemy
fire, harassed at times by sniper fire. He disregarded his own
personal safety and administered first aid to the wounded. He
succeeded in evacuating many seriously wounded men. Sergeant Smith's
gallant actions were responsible for saving the lives of many
wounded."
Sergeant Smith also holds the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster
for wounds received in combat, and the president's citation, combat
infantryman badge, ETO and Good Conduct medals.
Smith volunteered for service in the Parotroopers [sic] Oct. 9,
1942. and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division in March 1944.
He has seen action in Normandy. Holland, Ardennes, Belgium,
Seigfried [sic] Line, Germany, and France. He is with the 508th
Infantry Regiment and is serving in his 20th month overseas with
Supreme Headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Smith of 119 Riverside Drive.
He has one son, Jimmy, aged 4.
