The son of  Mr. and Mrs. Howard smith of lorne Ave., Chatham.

Prior to the war while attending CCI., John became a basketball star.

History After Enlistment… Trained at Toronto, Camp Borden, Montreal, Jarvis, and Penfield Ridge, N.B. Posted for overseas duty and was attached to the 21st Squadron R.A.F.

It was reported in the CDN 23/10/42 that John had left Chatham for an “eastern port” after spending a furlough with his parents.

Sgt. Smith went overseas in 1942 and was commissioned to the rank of Flying Officer before his discharge from active service. During operations over enemy territory in August of 1943 he was seriously wounded by anti-aircraft shrapnel but continued to operate his wireless set. For this F/O Smith became one of the first from Kent County to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM). After returning to Chatham after the was F/O Smith became an instructor with the Chatham Air Cadets where his operational flying prior to D-Day would be most valuable. CDN 25/09/45.

Date of Discharge… May 24th 1945

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Awards	Distinguished Flying Medal, 1939-45 Star, General Service Medal and clasp
Sources	CFF-FD44, IODE(P)

Age	born 1921
Birthplace	Carlton Place, Ont.
Religion	Anglican
When Enlisted	June 1941
Next of Kin	Ethel Smith (Mother)

---

Notice something wrong with this record? Or, do you have something to add? Report it using our online form.