Who was Airman (Private, Whomever) Snuffy?

MSgt J D McKee — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 19:26:50 -0400

I see much on here about Airman (Private, etc) Snuffy. Generally pejorative.

So, here is who Snuffy really is:

SSgt "Snuffy" (Maynard) Smith joined the USAAC in 1942. He was such an asshole nobody wanted to fly with him. On his FIRST mission, he got the Medal of Honor. Three crew members very senior to him jumped out of the burning B17, but Snuffy stayed at his post. Kept firing back at the Luftwaffe with every M2 available, and there were several because, well, most of the gunners left or were WIA/KIA. Did first aid on two crewmen. Put out the burning airplane by PISSING on it. The B17 broke in half as it touched down and skidded down the runway in two pieces. Smith's bomber had been hit with more than 3,500 bullets and pieces of shrapnel. The Secretary of War came to award him the MEDAL OF HONOR for the above-mentioned heroics, he was found peeling potatoes or some shit on KP. Because he got drunk and was late for a mission.

THAT, my friends, is a hero. I never rose to his level, however, I did show up late for formations because I got drunk, if that counts...

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Jul 30 at 2015 8:01 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 20:01:55 -0400

I though Snuffy was the guy always seen at the barracks hanging with Benotz and Schmucatelli? He was an 0351 as long as I knew him. Now, I know why "Snuffy" got tagged as the guy who was always hung-over & half-dressed... on his way to formation! Good stuff, MSgt J D McKee!

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jul 31 at 2015 12:46 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 00:46:31 -0400

MSgt J D McKee, so, did you get your MOH?

Response by SSgt Judy L made Nov 2 at 2015 4:14 PM

SSgt Judy L — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 16:14:15 -0500

And proof of this story is where? It sounds like a war movie.

Response by Maj Jeff Dodd made Nov 2 at 2015 4:18 PM

Maj Jeff Dodd — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 16:18:21 -0500

Close relative of Seaman Apprentice Joseph "Joey" Bagadonuts