Robert E. Smith
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Robert E. Smith (c. 1918 – c. 2004), was an American pilot who flew in World War II and the Korean War, serving in both the United States Air Force and the Royal Air Force during his career.
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[edit] Service in WWII
In 1941, on the cusp of the United States entering into war with Imperial Japan, Smith dropped out of The Citadel to become "A Yank in the RAF" and begin flying with the famed Eagle squadron in England.
In 1942, a telegram was sent home to his family in Norfolk, Virginia informing them that Smith was shot down over France and was MIA, presumed to be KIA. Smith survived for 4 months in enemy territory (In spite of being unable to speak German or French). Using the railways and various disguises, Smith worked his way toward the friendly territory. In the dead of winter, he crossed the Pyrenees, only to be captured and tortured in a Spanish prison before being released.
[edit] Service in the Korean War
Smith flew 117 missions during the Korean campaign.
[edit] Awards and medals
Smith was awarded:
- One Distinguished Flying Cross
- One Bronze Star Medal
- Five Air Medals
- Two Purple Hearts
