Judge Robert E. Smith

My Grandfather

I had the experience about a week and a half ago of going to Greenwood, Indiana, my mom's home town, because her dad passed away. I was the only one of my siblings who was able to make it to the funeral and I would like to recount some of my experience.

Grandpa was buried in the Greenwood, Indiana cemetary on Saturday, June 6, 2009. Those of you who know your history will notice that D-day was exactly 65 years prior. Fitting, since grandpa flew in that mission. He was an escort pilot in WWII, he flew a p-51 he had named "Yard Bird." Above you can see some of his military medals.

Naturally I know much more about my dad's side of the family. We grew up seeing his family during the summers and I spent a lot of time with his brother, Mike, while I was in college, since I lived so close. The last time I went to Indiana, however, was 5 years ago. The time before that I was about 13. I have to say it was a wonderful experience learning more about my heritage. I learned that I am much more like my Grandpa than I ever knew.

My mom is a very strong person. Those of you who know her are aware of this. I have always admired her for that strength, and for her acceptance and love of other people, and her innate ability to stay true to who she is and what she knows is right. What I failed to realize for 26 years of my life is that she got all of that from her dad. Even the small things surprised me. Grandpa loved to swim, so do I. Grandpa loved adventure and travel, so do I. Grandpa made sure the right things happened, and screw any SOB who didn't care to understand (umm... I might be just a little like that...).

I think the thing I admire most about Grandpa was his patriotism. He served and loved his country with all his heart. He did things and saw things I will never have to face. Not only did he serve in the war, but he also served honorably as a judge for many years. If I manage to do half of what Grandpa did in his lifetime I will consider myself successful.

I would like to say a word about my dear, sweet grandmother. She really is amazing. She stood by grandpa for all those years through long hours of work and hours and hours and hours of airplane repairs. At the memorial she made it a point to commend the men who came to do the gun salute. She talked to each one of them and thanked them for their service and told them how important it was for them to be there. Even in such a dark hour for her she thought of others.

The Smith family really is unlike any other. I'm so thankful I got to spend time with all of you. It was so enlightening and fulfilling to understand more fully the legacy Robert Smith left behind. I'm proud to be a part of it.

Don't ever let those bastards grind you under.