Ernest Alvia "Smokey" Smith

Few soldiers in Canadian military history embody courage like Ernest Alvia “Smokey” Smith. Best known as Canada’s last surviving recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC)—the British Commonwealth’s highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy—Smokey Smith became a national symbol of bravery, resilience, and service.

Born on May 3, 1914, in New Westminster, British Columbia, Smith enlisted in the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada during the Second World War. He served through some of the war’s toughest campaigns, earning the 1939–1945 Star, Italy Star, Defence Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Silver Maple Leaf, and the War Medal 1939–45 for his wartime service.

His defining moment came on the night of 21–22 October 1944, near the Savio River in Italy. German tanks and infantry launched a fierce counterattack against his unit, threatening to overrun Canadian positions. Despite overwhelming odds, Smith single-handedly fought back with a PIAT anti-tank weapon, destroying a German tank at close range. Even after comrades were wounded and enemy soldiers advanced, he continued firing his Thompson submachine gun, killing and repelling multiple attackers. His fearless stand helped halt the assault and saved countless lives.

For what the official Victoria Cross citation described as “the most outstanding gallantry and conspicuous devotion to duty,” Smith was awarded the Victoria Cross, joining the most elite circle of military heroes in Commonwealth history.

After the war, Smith continued serving Canada, later receiving the Canadian Forces Decoration (CD) for long and exemplary military service. His lifetime contributions to the nation extended far beyond the battlefield. In recognition of his extraordinary legacy, he was appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada (CC)—one of the country’s highest civilian honours—and was later invested into the Order of British Columbia (OBC), recognizing his profound impact on his home province.

His distinguished service was further marked by multiple national commemorative honours, including the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal (1953), Canadian Centennial Medal (1967), Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal (1977), 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal (1992), and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal (2002).

Smokey Smith passed away on August 3, 2005, but his legacy remains immortal. More than a decorated soldier, he became a living reminder of the courage displayed by Canada’s wartime generation. His story continues to inspire historians, military collectors, veterans, and Canadians alike.

Ernest “Smokey” Smith was not simply a war hero—he was the embodiment of courage under fire, and a permanent chapter in Canada’s military heritage.