Career
Smith joined the Army from Central, South Carolina in July 1943, and by May 31, 1944 was serving as a private in the 135th Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division. During a battle on that day, near Lanuvio, Italy, his group came under intense German attack and began to withdraw. Smith voluntarily stayed behind with the wounded and protected them until he was overrun and killed.
Smith, aged 19 at his death, was buried at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Central, South Carolina.