Ed Smith

Ed Smith’s journey began in Detroit, Michigan, where he was drafted into the U.S. Air Force during World War II. Though initially drafted, Ed was eager to serve and couldn’t wait to enlist. His love for the military was clear from the start, and his service became a significant chapter in his life. Ed spent nearly four years in the Air Force, primarily stationed in England, where he worked as a radio technician. His job was crucial to the success of the missions, as he was responsible for maintaining transmitters and receivers on the base, ensuring that communication between pilots and control towers remained intact during critical times.

Ed recalls a particularly proud moment during his service. While stationed at an air base in Baffington, England, about 40 miles north of London, he was working in the radio shack when he received a distress call from the control tower. A group of damaged military aircraft was attempting to land, but they had lost communication with the tower. Thanks to Ed’s expertise, he quickly identified and repaired a critical circuit in the transmitter that restored communication just in time. The aircraft were able to land safely, and Ed’s quick thinking and technical skills likely saved lives that day. It was a moment that still brings him immense pride, and he credits it as one of the highlights of his military career.

Though Ed had initially hoped to become a pilot, his vision disqualified him from flying. However, he adapted and embraced his role as a radio technician, working closely with the ground crew and supporting the war effort from behind the scenes. His work took him to various locations, including North Africa, where he helped maintain communication equipment on troop transport planes. While he didn’t get the chance to fly, Ed’s contribution to the war effort was no less significant, and he took pride in the work he did to ensure the success of Allied missions.

After the war, Ed returned to civilian life, moving back to Detroit. He pursued a career as an engineer, utilizing the skills he had developed in the Air Force. His career in engineering provided him with stability, and he worked in the field for many years before eventually retiring and moving to Florida. The move was partly motivated by a desire to escape the harsh winters of Michigan, as well as to be closer to his son, who had also relocated to the Sunshine State.

Now residing in Florida for over 20 years, Ed looks back on his time in the Air Force with fondness. He credits the military with instilling in him a sense of discipline and responsibility, though he admits he was already eager to serve before being drafted. He appreciates the camaraderie he shared with his fellow servicemen and the satisfaction that came from doing important work during a critical time in history. For Ed, the military was not just a duty, but a calling, and he feels fortunate to have been part of such an important chapter in world history.

At 100 years old, Ed remains active and engaged, reflecting on his experiences with clarity and wisdom. He was married for many years to his first wife, whom he met in Michigan, but after her passing, he found love again in Florida. He and his current wife have been married for nine years and continue to enjoy a happy life together. Ed credits much of his positive outlook to the values he developed during his time in the Air Force, as well as the love and support of his family.

In addition to his military service, Ed’s family has a strong tradition of serving the country. His younger brother served in Vietnam, though his brother’s experience was marred by exposure to Agent Orange, which eventually led to his death. Ed speaks solemnly about the impact of Agent Orange, acknowledging the lasting damage it caused to many Vietnam veterans. Despite the pain of losing his brother, Ed remains proud of his family’s military service and believes in the importance of serving the country when called upon.

When asked if he had any advice for younger generations considering military service, Ed’s response was simple: “If the country needs you, do it.” He believes in the value of being trained in your craft and doing your job well, whether in the military or civilian life. For Ed, the military provided him with the opportunity to serve a greater cause, and he encourages others to embrace the same sense of duty if given the chance.

Reflecting on his long life, Ed is grateful for the opportunities he’s had and the experiences that have shaped him. He’s seen many of his fellow servicemen pass away, but at 100 years old, he’s still here, proud of his service and thankful for the life he’s lived. Whether it was fixing radios in England or building a life in Florida, Ed has always approached life with a sense of purpose and a willingness to do what was needed. His story is a testament to the quiet heroism of those who served behind the scenes, ensuring that the mission could go on.