Navy Federal Credit Union

During World War II, John Smith became a U.S. Army Air Forces ACE, credited with shooting down 6 enemy aircraft in aerial combat. On November 9, 1943, while pursuing a Japanese Zero, he collided with another fighter airplane and was killed in action.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    433d Fighter Squadron

    Regiment:

    475th Fighter Group

    Division:

    5th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) John Clay Smith (ASN: 0-736392), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Fighter Pilot of the 433d Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.