Col. John L. Smith

John Lucien Smith, U.S.M.C., was born on December 26, 1914, and spent his boyhood here. In 54 days of aerial combat in the Solomon Islands, he destroyed 19 Japanese planes and became the leading air ace of World War II at that time. His awards included the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross, the British Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Honor, and the Air Medal with One Star.

Lexington, Oklahoma · United States