James C. Smith

James Cliffton Smith Jr. Smith completed fixed-wing flight training for artillery observation at Fort Sill in November 1946. He later received helicopter flight training and, in 1961, completed a Bachelor of General Studies degree in military science at the University of Omaha. Smith graduated from the Army Command and General Staff College in 1957 and the Army War College.

Military career During World War II, Smith was sent to Europe after being commissioned as a second lieutenant of cavalry on 14 January 1943. While serving as a platoon leader, he was shot several times by a German sniper. Smith was awarded the Silver Star Medal and a Purple Heart. He relinquished command in January 1973. Smith later served as commander of the Army Aviation Center and Fort Rucker from July 1976 to December 1978.

Personal Smith was married to Doris Smith for sixty-six years. The couple had seven children and twelve grandchildren.