Staff Reports
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STEVENSON, ALA. – The City of Stevenson gladly declared June 24, 2024, as John H. Smith Day to honor 100-year-old World War II Veteran Sgt. John H. Smith for his service to the United States and his fellow man.
Sgt. Smith can be described as someone who cares about his fellow man. In an interview with WHNT, Smith explained that helping others is one of the reasons he feels he was placed on earth. He said reaching the triple digits isn’t common, but he says leading a life of faith and treating others with kindness can take you far. He also credits his spiritual relationship with Christ for reaching the 100-year celebration.
Sgt. Smith, a Stevenson native, is loved and admired by his family. NJP spoke with his great-granddaughter, Sasha Demery, about her loved one. Demery stated, “We are so blessed to have him in our lives. He is a gentle, loving, family-oriented, and God-fearing man! I am so glad that God is allowing him to be able to enjoy his children all the way up to his great-great-grandchildren – five generations. He is the rock of our family! I love you so much, Daddy.”
Demery described Sgt. Smith as being in good health. She said he walks, talks, laughs – you would never think he was 100 years old!” On June 24, his actual birthday, his family asked him what he wanted to do. He had two requests. First, he wanted to stay up until midnight to thank God for this milestone. Secondly, he wanted to jump rope. He accomplished both goals.
Sgt. Smith’s impact on others has reached beyond just his family. While serving in World War II, Smith’s love for the song ‘Amazing Grace’ was multiplied, and it remains his favorite song today. A near-death experience made the song come to life during a critical WWII mission in which Mr. Smith served as a Police Officer; he and his fellow service members were tasked with transporting prisoners from Umejima, Japan. On their trip back, the submarine was surrounded by the enemy. Once their Lieutenant realized they were outnumbered, he gathered his soldiers and called for the Chaplain. As Mr. Smith emotionally recalls, the Chaplain began to pray, and the soldiers began to sing Amazing Grace. As they continued to sing, the vessel stayed its course and miraculously made it safely past enemy lines unnoticed and unharmed.
One of Sgt. Smith’s granddaughters honored Smith and helped fulfill his desire to help other veterans by starting a foundation in his name and the name of his favorite song. John’s Amazing Grace Foundation’s purpose is to help Veterans who are suffering the effects of service-related trauma and PTSD. The foundation is in Atlanta, Georgia, serving the needs of homeless and transitioning Veterans who are often faced with many obstacles and delays when finding assistance. John’s Amazing Grace Foundation was established to help lighten their burden through needs-based support and advocacy services. If you would like to donate to the foundation, visit https://www.johnsamazinggrace.com/.
Sgt. Smith shared another tip for living a long, happy life: “Love the Lord, love God with all your heart, strength, and mind. Love one another, try to get along with your enemies, and pray for them.”
Congratulations, Sgt. Smith, on all the amazing things God has allowed you to accomplish during your first 100 years on earth. Thank you for your brave service during the war and your commitment to helping your fellow man after the war. Happy John H. Smith Day!
