Dalton Odell Smith

Chief Master Sergeant E-9, Ret. USAF

Dalton Odell Smith, Ret USAF Chief Master Sergeant E-9

Dalton O. Smith, 86, passed away on October 28, 2022. He was born, September 17, 1936, in New Bern, North Carolina. As a young boy, he was placed in the Oxford Orphan Home in Oxford, North Carolina. He remained at Oxford until he graduated from High School. He then enlisted in the USAF, and after 24 years of service, he retired with rank of E-9, Chief Master Sergeant. His specialty was Cardiopulmonary Laboratory Technology and Hospital Administration.

Upon his retirement, he was an active member of the volunteer Arizona Civil Air Patrol for over 50 years. He attained the rank of Colonel. During this time, he served as the Arizona Wing Commander for five years in the late 80’s. During these 50 years, he was an Instructor Pilot, Wing Check Pilot. He also ran the Maintenance Program as the Chief Maintenance Officer of the Wings fleet of aircraft. This resulted in the Arizona Wing flying program being one of the safest in the nation, earning the Arizona Wing many safety awards. Also, during this time he was Chief pilot for King Aviation which initially provided air service transportation for the late Senator John McCain, former Presidential nominee of the Republican Party in 2008, as well many other Dignitary charged flights.

He is survived by his wife Mary, of 53 years, and by prior marriage, his son Donald Smith, daughters Cathie Helgeland and Ramie McCluskey. He has five Grandchildren and two Great Grandchildren. Per his wishes, no memorial services were held. Final Military Burial Services, with Honors, will be held June 2, 2023, at 10:30 am, at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85024.

He was a true patriot and a storied Aviator. In his memory, please consider donations to the Wounded Warrior Program. Condolences may be sent to buelermortuary.com.