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2011 SPECIAL SESSION I

11200144D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5026
Offered April 25, 2011
Celebrating the life of Major William O'Connor Smith, USAF (Ret.).
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Patron-- Poindexter
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Unanimous consent to introduce
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WHEREAS, Major William O’Connor Smith, USAF (Ret.) of Smith Mountain Lake, a decorated United States Air Force officer and respected citizen of the Commonwealth, died on March 27, 2011; and

WHEREAS, a native of New York, William “Bill” Smith graduated from King School, where he excelled in his studies and was an exemplary athlete; he then received an appointment to the United States Military Academy and an offer to play professional baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers; and

WHEREAS, an extremely talented young man, Bill Smith chose to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and finished his undergraduate studies at the University of Tampa; he was then commissioned into the United States Air Force; and

WHEREAS, a skilled pilot, Bill Smith flew the T-38, B-47 bombers, and the F-100 fighter jet and served two tours in Vietnam; he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with eight oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Presidential Unit Citation, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with device for his exemplary service; and

WHEREAS, following a distinguished 23-year career with the United States Air Force, Bill Smith worked as a consultant with Boeing Aircraft Co. and General Electric Aeronautical, where he provided valuable insight and guidance based on his extensive experience and expertise; and

WHEREAS, after his retirement, Bill Smith relocated to Smith Mountain Lake and became a valued member of the community and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors; and

WHEREAS, an active member of the Military Officers Association of America, Bill Smith was also an avid student of American History; and

WHEREAS, known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and willingness to help others, Bill Smith served his country and community with great integrity and honor; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by his first wife, Nancy, Bill Smith will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Gretchen; children, Elizabeth and William; stepchildren, Mark and David; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of a decorated officer and respected citizen of the Commonwealth, Major William O’Connor Smith, USAF (Ret.); and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Major William O’Connor Smith, USAF (Ret.) as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for his memory.