- SURNAME
Smith
- FORENAME
Edward Leroy
- UNIT
1 Raider Bn (Company A)
- RANK
Private
- NUMBER
340428
- AWARD
Navy Cross
- PLACE
Guadalcanal 1942
- ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
KIA - see Roll of Honour
ROLL OF HONOUR:
https://www.specialforcesroh.com/index.php?threads/smith-edward-leroy-jr.4387/CITATION:
Navy Cross : The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private Edward L. Smith, Jr. (MCSN: 340428), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 - 9 October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River, Private Smith and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-t-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces, Private Smith refused to be dislodged from his position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private Smith gallantly gave his life for his country.
WEB LINKS:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/119970404/edward-l-smithFINDAGRAVE:
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/112482661/edward-leroy-smith
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