William Lee Smith, USMC Retired left this world for glory on December 21, 2015 at Mississippi State Veterans Home in Oxford, MS. 1st Sgt William L. Smith a native of Chattanooga was a resident of Jacksonville, NC. He is survived by his loving wife Rhonda Smith 4 stepchildren Jason Meeks (Rhonda) Coalmont TN, Peyton Yokley (Brandy) Smithville TN, Asha Yokley Woodbury TN, and Natasha Prince Manchester, TN. 7 Grandchildren, 3 Nephews and one Niece. He is preceded in death by his mother Una Hartman Smith, Chattanooga, TN. Mr. Smith was a wonderful husband, soninlaw, stepfather, and grandfather and was loved by his family and friends. 1 st Sgt Smith was a highly decorated Marine and veteran of the Vietnam War, saw conflicts in other countries and was at the bombing in Beirut, Lebanon. He received the Bronze Star Combat V for Heroism and 1st Purple Heart in Vietnam where he was wounded severely in the throat unable to rise; he stoically continued to direct, control and encourage his fire team until he was evacuated. A Navy Commendation Medal and 2nd Purple Heart with device were also awarded for heroic achievement while serving as squad leader during which he sustained a sever leg wound. Although unable to walk he directed his unit’s movement with verbal commands, arm and hand signals. Crawling through the exposed rice paddy, he effectively controlled the squad until the enemy force was routed from it prepared positions and forced to flee. He later served as Drill Instructor and Senior Drill Instructor at Paris Island, SC. He was appointed to serve the Chattanooga and Southeast region as Recruiter for the United States Marine Corp. 1st Sgt Smith received a total of 11 medals, and 22 ribbons as well as other awards for his service to the United States while serving in the Marine Corps. Graveside service with military honors will be held December 29, 2015 at 2:00 p m EST at Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, TN
