by Marisa Hegyesi
Lieutenant Colonel ALAN SMITH, Retired
Born in Hawaii, Alan has been married to his wife, Betsy, for 50 years. Being married for 50 years is exceptional. They have two sons, two daughters, a Grandson, and six Granddaughters. His oldest son was a Special Ops officer for 30 years, and his grandson is presently a Green Beret.
Alan obtained a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of South Carolina and a Masters Management from Central Michigan University.
His first job was joining the U.S. Army. His father was a Marine Corps pilot in WW2 and the Korean War. His father died in a 1954 training accident. Alan is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel. He did two tours flying in Vietnam. Alan flew small, fixed wing airplanes in Vietnam, such as the O-1 Birddog. During the Vietnam War, the Bird Dog performed reconnaissance, target acquisitions, artillery adjustments, radio relays, convoy escorts, and the FAC of tactical aircraft, including bombers operating in a tactical role. Over two years (1968 & 1971), Alan logged about 1700 flight hours. He retired from the Army in 1986.
Alan has worked as a Financial Advisor for almost 40 years. At age 78, he is still enjoying working at UBS Financial. When asked how he balances work/home life, his answer was “carefully.”
His favorite place in the world is “Home.” This needs no explanation. Sadly, he and Betsy lost their beloved small poodle after 16 years. Alan’s favorite food is Mexican (muy delicioso). His favorite TV Show is The Landman (Good Choice!) Musical scores from shows are his favorite music. Alan enjoys reading books by Nelson DeMille. In his free time, Alan enjoys golf (19 handicap) and cars (such as his Mercedes). He enjoys “fun stuff” that makes him laugh.
In the past he owned a 1980 380 SE, a 1988 560 SEC, a 2000 S 400, a 2007 S 550, a 2007 SL 55, a 1959 190 SL and a 2014 SL 63. Presently, Alan owns a 2015 S 550, a 2020 GLE 350 and a 2006 CLK. His favorite car is his 2021 S63 Cabriolet.
Alan’s plans for retirement will include more travel. How about that return trip to Montenegro?
In conclusions, Alan wants to remembered as “being a good Husband and Dad.” (Mission Accomplished).
