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Rear Admiral Gordon H. “Gordo” Smith, U.S. Navy (Retired), entered the U.S. Navy in June 1945 as a “Flying Midshipman,” and flew 244 combat missions as a naval aviator. He served in both the Korean War, flying the F4U Corsair off Leyte (CV-32) for 38 combat missions, and the Vietnam War, flying the A-1H “Spad” Skyraider off Oriskany (CVA-34). He survived a cold catapult shot (resulting in him being “keelhauled” by an aircraft carrier). As executive officer and commanding officer of Attack Squadron 152 (VA-152) on two Vietnam deployments, he survived being shot down over North Vietnam and bailing out just offshore; he also survived the tragic fire on Oriskany that killed VA-152’s executive officer and 43 others, mostly squadron and air wing personnel. He was the on-scene commander for 23 rescue combat air patrol (RESCAP) missions over North Vietnam (including the deepest penetration), resulting in 11 successful downed pilot extractions. Described as a “visionary intellect,” in his later tours he made major contributions to the improvement of Navy C4ISR networks and capability, retiring in 1979 as vice commander of the Naval Electronic Systems Command. His awards include the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and other combat awards.
Summary of Significant Career Events
During the mid-1960’s, became a recognized expert in search and rescue tactics and procedures in Southeast Asia. Was on-scene commander for 23 rescue attempts in North Vietnam of which 11 resulted in successful extraction. Most noteworthy was a successful night rescue 17 miles from Hanoi in a heavily defended area. The downed airman had no survival gear except a radio which would receive but not transmit. Finally homed in on the downed airman’s cigarette lighter and directed the helo to the pick-up while making runs with lights on to draw fire. Returned to the carrier with less than 5 minutes of fuel remaining.
Combat Awards:
About the Golden Eagles
The Association was formed by a group of Early Naval Aviators who were guests of the United States Navy on a cruise aboard USS Forrestal, (CVA-59), September 16-18, 1956.
The membership includes pioneers in Naval Aviation. Their designations as Naval Aviators, for the most part, were within the first 1900 who qualified for their wings. The membership was later expanded to include Pioneer Helicopter Pilots, Pioneer Jet Pilots, and aviators who qualified for carrier landings during the period when the Langley was the only airplane carrier. The membership also includes a limited number of Naval Aviators who, during their tour of duty were pioneers in the development of new concepts, received special citation for unusual, outstanding performance, and who otherwise warrant special consideration.
