Robert T. Smith

Robert T. Smith
Nickname(s)"R.T.", "Tadpole", "Bob"
Born(1918-02-23)February 23, 1918
York, Nebraska, US
DiedAugust 21, 1995(1995-08-21) (aged 77)
Van Nuys, California, US
AllegianceUnited States
Service / branchUnited States Army Air Forces
United States Air Force Reserve
Years of service1939–1945
1949–1966
RankLieutenant Colonel
Service number0-395294
UnitAmerican Volunteer Group
1st Air Commando Group
Commands337th Fighter Squadron
Battles / warsWorld War II
AwardsSilver Star
Distinguished Flying Cross
Air Medal
Order of the Cloud and Banner with Special Cravat (China)
Star Wing Medal (China)
Distinguished Flying Cross (United Kingdom)
Other workTWA pilot
Executive

Robert Tharp (R.T.) Smith (February 23, 1918 – August 21, 1995) was an American World War II fighter pilot and ace, credited with 8.7, 8.9 or 9 Japanese aircraft while fighting with the American Volunteer Group (Flying Tigers).