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Posted on 08/29/2006 7:39:46 PM PDT by SandRat
HOLIDAY, Fla.(Army News Service, Aug. 29, 2006) – What began last year as a suggestion by retired Maj. Gen. Fred Raymond came full circle last Friday during a dedication ceremony of the new Paul R. Smith Middle School in Holiday, Fla.
More than 500 family, friends, Soldiers, veterans, legislators, county officials and students were present.
Raymond recommended to the Pasco County School Board in September 2005 that the new school be named after Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant 1st Class Paul R. Smith. Smith’s parents, widow and two children live in Holiday, and his 12-year old son David is now a student at the school that bears his father’s name.
“I told the board members that students could learn a lot about courage, selflessness, and service to country and community from Paul Smith's example,” said Raymond. “Paul Smith is an outstanding role model for Pasco County students.”
Smith died in combat April 4, 2003, as he fought off Iraqi attackers near Baghdad International Airport. His actions saved the lives of at least 100 Soldiers, caused the failure of a deliberate enemy attack hours after Soldiers seized the airport, and resulted in an estimated 20-50 enemy soldiers killed, according to the official Medal of Honor narrative.
Smith received the Medal of Honor posthumously during a White House ceremony April 4, 2005. Smith. He served in B Company, 11th Engineer Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division.
U.S. Representative Michael Bilirakis, R-9th District, presented the school a U.S. flag that flew over the U.S. capitol. Col. Mark McKnight, 3rd Inf. Div. chief of staff, presented a framed plaque of the Smith’s official Medal of Honor narrative.
“I’m hoping students here will want to learn more about the man whose name graces this school,” said Smith’s wife Birgit.
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WOW! This Florida town gets it!
Mascot??? Patriots?
The "Jungle Cat" is the mascot for his outfit, I think...
I consider myself a tough guy but will somebody pass me a Kleenex. You NEVER see this stuff in America anymore. This is rare and that is sad.
I have a funny feeling that the ACLU and liberals will do something to fight this. Just a feeling. Wonder why I have such a feeling? Hmmmmm.
He was in B Company, they are the Bulldogs.
Joe, please send this out to the Florida list!
I agree, it's very sad but Thank God this town got it!
-ccm
Well,...at least we have General Meyer Elementary School on post.
I am so glad this came to pass.
This never would have hppened in many states.
I used to work at the pentagon while in the army.
On down time I'd often go to their Mdeal of Honor room and read the stories of the great Americans that have won this most prized medal.
Most died earning it thinking only of their brothers in arms.
Too bad these stories aren't told regulary in movies and on t.v. isnstead of the crap they do provide.
Thx....
Love, love, love...
From the schools website:
The school mascot for Paul R. Smith Middle School has been selected by students from the following schools:
Gulf Middle School
Gulfside Elementary School
Mittye P. Locke Elementary School
Seven Spring Middle School
Sunray Elementary School
The ballots have been tabulated and the official mascot is the EAGLES!
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