Lt. Col. Harry Verne Smith

True to the spirit of NGC. Skip '59

Verne was a wonderful man with may accomplishments and a lot of loving friends.

Verne's Mother Vera was my Mom best friend work buddy at the Ralston Hotel in Columbus Georgia. Often Miss Vera would talk about her son Verne who she dearly loved. She was extremely proud of him. Eventually I met him. He told me about NGC and the Army. I was in awe of him. He graduated form NGC in 1961 and I entered NGC in 1967 and graduated 1971. Hand Salute! Day Is Done!

What a good man. I have many fond memories of LTC Smith, who along with others at NGC helped shape my path. Rest well.

I first met LTC Smith, then a Major, at college night at Columbus College in early 1971. He was accompanied by Major Charles Pritchett. We soon determined that Major Pritchett and I were distance relations and then Major Smith told me that he was a 1957 graduate of Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus. I told him that I had 2 uncles who attended Jordan and had graduated around that time. That is when I realized that I was not going off to college but I was going to my second home. David...

Vern was, to me, the epitome of an approachable, highly competent officer and gentleman. It was an honor to work with him at NGC and in several community organizations. Rest In Peace, my friend.

I remember LTC Smith from my days at NGC. He was a great alumni leader and gave us outstanding support. My prayers are with his family and may he rest in His eternal peace.

Verne, such a kind man and I feel blessed to have worked with him at NGC. May he rise in glory!