05/27/2026
Did You Know?
In the British Commonwealth, the highest award for outstanding bravery is the Victoria Cross. Today we recognize one of its most remarkable recipients, Private Ernest "Smokey" Smith of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada.
On the night of 21/22 October 1944, at the Savio River in northern Italy, Private Smith's unit crossed the river to establish a bridgehead, only to be counter-attacked by three Mark V Panther tanks, two self-propelled guns, and approximately 30 German infantry soldiers.
With a PIAT anti-tank launcher, Smith engaged the first Panther tank at just 30 feet, hitting it and putting it out of action. Ten German soldiers immediately charged him. Without hesitation, he opened fire, killing four and driving the rest back.
As the attack continued, Smith held his position alone, his comrades wounded or sheltering in a nearby church. He used another PIAT to damage a second tank, forcing it to withdraw. He then carried his wounded comrade to safety and returned to his post to await any further attack.
The official citation records that by the time the enemy withdrew, one tank and both self-propelled guns had been destroyed. Smith was the only Canadian private to ever earn the Victoria Cross.
Come discover more stories like this at The Military Museums.
