SFC Paul R Smith

[Spinner]

“Paul Ray had an incredible love for the troops under his command. One Christmas, the wife of a Soldier in Paul Ray’s platoon had just had surgery and the Soldier and his wife were unable to provide a Christmas for their family. So, Paul Ray collected food from the company Christmas party, and he and Birgit bought presents for the children, and they took them to the Soldier’s home.” Paul Ray’s family never heard of this until recounted to them by friends after his death. “Another…..very descriptive event that showed Paul Ray’s concern for his men involves another Soldier whose baby daughter was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital with a serious illness. Paul Ray would drive an hour out of town every night to give his support to this Soldier and his wife.”

God bless him. I met and served with a few NCOs just like this, who went that extra mile for the troops. There is definitely more to this job than meets the eye.

[Ergogirl]

Just got back from Orlando where I went on a tour of the Army's RDECOM Simulation & Training Technology Center. They recently renamed it the Sgt. 1st Class Paul Ray Smith Simulation and Training Technology Center and made a point of letting us spend a few moments near the memorial outside as well as view the replica of the MOH hanging in the conference room.

It was very moving, especially the engraved bricks along the walkway with special messages from family members.

As I understand it, they had decided to name the Center after him before he was nominated for the Medal of Honor. Truly an outstanding individual.

[Culvermilitary06]

We had his brigade commander come and speak at our school for vetran's day (he was a graduate). It was before the offical award was given and he an extremely moving speech about both SFC Smith and the war effort. Hell of a man SFC Smith was, and I'm honored that Americans like him exist.

Mac