Senator Michael Gianaris honored World War II veteran, Queensbridge resident and community fixture John D. Smith Sr. as an inductee into the New York State Senate Veteran’s Hall of Fame, which is designed to pay tribute to New Yorkers whose gallantry in the U.S. Armed Forces is complemented by service to their communities. Senator Gianaris presented Mr. Smith with a commemorative plaque at the Jacob A. Riis Neighborhood Settlement House in Queensbridge Houses.
“It is an honor and a pleasure to induct Mr. Smith into the Senate Veteran’s Hall of Fame,” said Senator Gianaris. “Mr. Smith, or Johnny as he likes to be called, exemplifies what this award is about. Not only was he among the greatest generation of Americans who liberated Europe from tyranny, but he came back to Queensbridge and dedicated his life to serving his community. I thank Mr. Smith for his service to his country and for his commitment to improving the lives of his neighbors.”
Mr. Smith’s service in the U.S. Army during WWII took him to England, France and Germany. When he served in the military, the army was still segregated. Though he encountered both friendship and discrimination during his time in the military, Mr. Smith never forgot that he was serving his country.
When Mr. Smith returned from the war he married his longtime sweetheart Frances. As their family grew they moved to Queensbridge Houses, where they quickly became pillars of the neighborhood. John served his community, just as he had served his country, as a member of the Riis Settlement Senior Center Board and even drove the senior van to help his fellow residents get around the neighborhood.
To this date, on Veteran’s Day each year, Mr. Smith organizes activities at the Senior Center to give his neighbors an opportunity to recognize and salute those who have served, are serving, or have made the greatest sacrifice for our country.
With nine grandchildren, dozens of great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren John and Frances Smith continue to lead the way for community residents of all ages.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
