Ford Smart says he “Dead-sticked a F-105 at Wheelus Nuc Range Garvel 3000’ strip in Jun 1965”. He also flew 100 missions over North Vietnam in the F-105D and medically Retired in 1977.
Ford H. Smart, Col USAF, Ret., “Headed West” on March 25, 2020.
Retired Col. Ford H. Smart, age 90, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at the place of his choosing, his home, in Ft. Walton Beach, FL. He leaves behind, his son, Clifford Merz, his companion, Clara “Kit” Starks and many friends whom he loved.
Ford was born in Lexington, KY in 1929. He grew up and attended school in Erie, PA. He joined the Army in 1946 after graduating high school until his Honorable Discharge in 1948.
Ford graduated from Ohio Wesleyan in 1952 and joined the Air Force ROTC. He entered the Air Force Pilot Training program at Malden, MO. In 1952, this is when his real calling in life began as an Air Force Pilot. Ford flew many planes such as the F-86, F-100, and the F-105. He served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, in the Pentagon as Chief of MEAFSA, also as Chief of TAC Fighter Division Program for the F-15’s. Ford ended his military career as Chief Liaison between the United States and Morocco.
After retirement from the Air Force in 1975, Ford pursued his creative artistic talents at his home in Fort Walton Beach, FL.
Col. Smart dedicated his life for us serving 27 years of active duty military service, Col. Smart was a highly decorated pilot in the U.S. Air Force. Ford will be missed. Expressions of love and sympathy may be placed and viewed online at www.mclaughlinmortuary.com
