Message from CDS and DM regarding passing of Sgt "Smokey" Smith
It is with great sorrow that we must announce the death of Sgt (ret'd) Ernest Alvia "Smokey" Smith, Canada's last surviving Canadian Victoria cross recipient. Smokey died August 3rd, 05, 0400hrs local, in Vancouver B.C.
Smokey was born in New Westminster British Columbia on 3 may 1914. During the Second World War Mr Smith enlisted in the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada and served with that unit throughout its involvement in the Italian and Northwest European campaigns. It was in 1944, at the battle of Savio River, during the Italian campaign, that he clearly distinguished himself from other soldiers. At the battle, his actions of valour were recognized through him being awarded the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth's highest award for valour. His war service ended with his de-activation from the permanent force on 13 April 1945.
Smokey's funeral will be a national undertaking with a view to honour not only Sgt Smith as an individual, but all those who have gone before him and who will come after him. Details of the arrangements will be distributed once they have been confirmed.
This funeral will be a national undertaking with plans for two lying-in-state ceremonies. The first ceremony will take place in Ottawa on Tuesday, 9 August 05, in Centre Block of Parliament Buildings between 1000 hrs and 2030 hrs. The second ceremony will take place in Vancouver on Friday, 12 August 05 at Seaforth Armoury (timings TBA).
Sgt Smith was a true Canadian hero and his passing is particularly poignant as we honour all those who went before us during this year of the veteran.
To ensure we properly acknowledge Sgt Smith's contribution and those of his fellow veterans, a maximum Canadian Forces (CF) representation is strongly encouraged at the two lying-in-state ceremonies. Therefore, CF personnel within reasonable military transport (buses, etc) commuting distance of these two locations will be expected to attend and pay their respects. Local commanders should facilitate this. (Dress for the ceremonies will be DEU 1a.)
Civilian DND employees should also feel free to attend these lying-in-state ceremonies if they are so inclined.
Books of condolence will be available for signing in Ottawa in the Foyer of the House of Commons and at the Canadian War Museum, and in Vancouver at the Seaforth Highlanders Armoury, 1650 Burrard Street. The books of condolence may be signed at any of these three locations on Monday, 8 August - 0900 - 2000 hrs (local time) (1800 hrs at the Canadian War Museum).
Condolences can also be sent by email via DND's web site by visiting: http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/Feature_Story/2005/08/smokey_f_e.asp.
On behalf of the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence, we would like to send our sincerest condolences to Smokey's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
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