Arthur L. Smith

Arthur L. Smith

Born: April 21, 1935

Died: July 19, 2017

A1C United States Air Force

Korean War Period

Most of Arthur Smith’s time was spent in North Africa, where among his duties he served as radio announcer. One of his many jobs was an orderly at the West Roxbury Veterans Administration Hospital. His experience as an agent for Boston Mutual Life Insurance, which he retired from in 1995 after many years, prepared him for his next career as a service officer with the American Legion. As a veteran, Arthur was invited to join the American Legion in the late 1970’s. His life-long love and commitment for the Legion led to 35 plus years as a member involved in numerous legion programs, including the William E. Carter Post 16 color guard. He was part of the 54th Regiment group that traveled to South Carolina to promote the movie “Glory”, the story of Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment of Massachusetts. Arthur held several leadership positions at the Post, including chairman for annual MLK Breakfast, as well as positions at the County and Department (State) levels. In 1995-96, he attained his highest position as Commander of the Department of Massachusetts. Out of all of Arthur’s work with the Legion, his favorite was working with Legion sponsored troops of the Boy Scouts of America. During his involvement, he was an active participant and chairman of the Massachusetts’ Annual Father’s Day Boy Scout Camporee.