Add Content
First Name
Bradley
Middle Name
E.
Last Name
Smith
Birthdate
Hometown
Youngstown, Ohio
Rank
Commander
Service Branch
Navy
Date Captured
Date Repatriated
Pre Capture Image
PreCapture Description
Bradley Smith began taking flying lessons at age 15 and already had his private pilot's license before he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on August 31, 1961. He was later selected for Naval Cadet Flight Training where he received his commission and wings in 1964. He was assigned to Attack Squadron VA-76 in February 1965, flying off the Aircraft Carriers USS Roosevelt, America, and Enterprise. Smith began flying combat missions in the A-4 Skyhawk in November 1965. He was forced to eject over North Vietnam while flying his 77th combat mission on March 25, 1966. The North Vietnamese captured Lieutenant Smith and held him as a Prisoner of War.
Post Release Image
Post Release Description
Smith was released during Operation Homecoming on February 12, 1973. After his return, Smith went back on flying status in the A-7 Corsair II. He flew from the USS Saratoga from 1974 to 1977, seeing duty off the coast of Lebanon. From 1979 to 1981, he flew from the USS Coral Sea in the Indian Ocean, including being on alert during the rescue attempt of the hostages held in Iran. Smith served as the Aircraft Maintenance Officer and as a Weapons System Test Pilot at the Pacific Missile Test Center at Point Mugu, California, from 1981 until his retirement from the Navy on August 31, 1985. After retirement, Brad worked for the defense contractor Lear Siegler before starting a Stained Glass business in Florida.
Honors, Citations, and Commendations
- Silver Star (2)
- Legion of Merit
- Distinguished Flying Cross (2)
- Bronze Star (3)
- Prisoner of War Medal
Passed away before release
Post Release