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Frederick Wallace Smith, Vietnam Veteran, Silver Star recipient, business magnate, investor and philanthropist
Episode 3392 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature the reasons why Fred Smith is a tremendous representative of the Vietnam Veteran generation.
Frederick Wallace Smith, the remarkable Vietnam War veteran and founder of Federal Express (FedEx), lived a life defined by courage, leadership, determination, and service to America. Born on August 11, 1944, in Marks, Mississippi, Smith overcame a childhood bone disease and developed a passion for aviation while still a teenager. After earning an economics degree from Yale University in 1966, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps.
Smith served two tours of duty in South Vietnam, working as a platoon leader and forward air controller aboard an OV-10 aircraft. His military service placed him in dangerous combat situations where courage, quick thinking, and decisive leadership meant the difference between life and death.
On May 27, 1968, during a fierce engagement on Gò Nổi Island in Quảng Nam Province, Smith demonstrated extraordinary bravery. Under intense enemy fire, he rescued wounded Marines, encouraged his men, directed artillery and air strikes, and led an aggressive attack that helped defeat the opposing North Vietnamese force. His actions earned him the Silver Star for gallantry, along with the Bronze Star Medal and two Purple Hearts. He was honorably discharged in 1969 as a Marine Corps captain.
Fred Smith’s story also illustrates the determination and ambition that helped transform American business. In 1971, he founded Federal Express, pioneering an integrated air-and-ground delivery system that revolutionized overnight shipping and global logistics.
Although widely recognized as a business visionary, Smith’s legacy extends far beyond commerce. His service represents the courage, sacrifice, and greatness of Vietnam veterans who faced extraordinary challenges while serving their nation.
Frederick Wallace Smith died on June 21, 2025, at age 80, and was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
Vietnam Veteran Fred Smith deserves recognition not only as the founder of FedEx but also as a decorated Marine officer whose battlefield bravery exemplifies the honor, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of America’s Vietnam veterans.
Listen to episode 3392 and discover more about why Fred Smith is a tremendous Vietnam Veteran
