James A. Smith (Medal of Honor)

He faced enemy fire during four battles at Tientsin in China

James A. Smith served as a landsman aboard USS Newark during the China Relief Expedition of 1900. His Medal of Honor recognized meritorious conduct near Tientsin on June 13, 20, 21 and 22, when the expedition faced hostile fire.

Born in New York on September 2, 1880, Smith received the nation’s highest military decoration for his conduct during those operations. He died in October 1973 and was buried at Mount St. Mary’s Cemetery in Flushing, New York.

Medal of Honor citation

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China during the battles of 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. Throughout this period and in the presence of the enemy, Smith distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.