Draft:Daniel D. Smith Sr.

Daniel D. Smith Sr. (born March 9, 1944) is an American military historian and author. He has published nonfiction books on several topics  , including the United States Medal of Honor and the American Civil War battles for the city of Chattanooga, Tennessee; U.S. Navy sailors’ memorabilia; tailor-made dress blues, liberty cuffs, and the folk art of U.S. Navy sailors; and the history of the U.S. Navy’s use of law enforcement-style badges.

Early life and education
Smith was born in San Diego, California, on March 9, 1944. He moved back and forth between San Diego and Chattanooga as a child, attending Central High School in Hamilton County, Tennessee, before leaving school early to join the Navy.

Career
Smith served 13 years on active duty in the U.S. Navy and another 13 years in the U.S. Navy Reserve, from which he retired as a senior chief petty officer. He was named sailor of the quarter for the Chattanooga Navy Reserve Center in 1978 and sailor of the year in 1985.

During his service aboard the USS Courtney in 1962, Smith's vessel circumnavigated South America along with four other ships on a mission to conduct naval exercises with several South American navies.



Smith was twice awarded the U.S. Navy Achievement Medal, first for his service from 1983 to 1984 as recruitment center leader. His team was also awarded the Golden Anchor for their achievements during this period. He again received the Navy Achievement Medal for service from 1985 to 1987 as executive officer of the USS Yosemite unit.

Following his military service, Smith retired from the Tennessee Valley Authority in 2001 after 23 years as an information technology manager.

As a volunteer, Smith served in several roles for the National Medal of Honor Museum of Military History, including executive director from 1997 to 1999 as well as curator and advisory board member.