[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 174 (Wednesday, December 2, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S8305]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO CORPORAL WILLIAM B. SMOAK

 Mr. SCOTT. Madam President, today I would like to honor one of 
our Lowcountry World War II veterans, 96-year-old, CPL William B. 
Smoak. After the war, he was awarded multiple medals for his unmatched 
bravery on the field of battle.
  Corporal Smoak was a radio control operator during the war who called 
in multiple airstrikes on the frontlines. His commanding officer told 
him that he was the only one of the radio controllers who seemed to be 
able to keep the radio on the air and thus call in more strikes; and 
because of this, Corporal Smoak risked his life by volunteering to go 
to the frontlines daily rather than switching out with the other radio 
controllers--which is considered by all above and beyond the call of 
duty.
  In and out of the hospital battling malaria during the war and back 
in the States, he found out his commanding officer had put in for him 
to receive the Bronze Star. He was also awarded the Asiatic-Pacific 
Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Philippine 
Liberation Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Honorable Service Button 
WWII, the marksman badge, and the carbine bar.
  It is with pride and honor that we recognize William B. Smoak and add 
his legacy to the Congressional Record. We will never forget his 
sacrifice.

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