World War II Veterans hold a special place in my heart. These brave Heroes left their families and friends and the only life they knew to travel to distant lands. Their deep patriotism compelled them to fight to preserve our freedoms. World War II Veteran Drew "Preacher" Smith was raised on a farm in Wildcat Bottom located in rural Marshall County. He was called "Preacher" from the time he was a young boy - always standing on a cotton bale preaching to the family because he did not want to pick cotton. Growing up, Mr. Smith said times were tough, but they managed well by growing their own food. "We were dirt farmers," Mr. Smith said. "We didn't have much, but we grew vegetables and raised chickens to feed ourselves. In the cold months, we hunted rabbits, squirrels, and opossums to put food on the table. There were twelve of us kids."
In 1943, 18-year-old Drew enlisted in the U.S. Army. After basic training, he took a train with approximately 300 other men to New Jersey. It wouldn't be long before the young Mississippian landed on the coast of Normandy. The Allies invaded German-occupied France. It was June 6, 1944 (D-Day). Thousands were killed but Drew managed to survive. "During my time in the war, I was wounded three separate times. I got shot to pieces and had to stay in the hospital for one whole year. When I was near death, the doctor decided that a shot of bourbon three times a day would be the only way to save me and it worked," said Smith.
In 1946, Mr. Smith returned to Marshall County where he eventually bought land which is not far from the place he grew up. He married a childhood friend named Gladys, and they had five children. Years later, Mr. Smith remarried. He and Eileen had two children. Mr. Smith and Eileen were married for 52 years before she passed away.
These days, Mr. Smith keeps busy growing vegetables and caring for seven cows, chickens, and three dogs. He motors around the property on his ATV. Most days, his remaining four children and friends will find him seated on the front porch. Mr. Smith is always eager to tell a good story and invite people inside to look at numerous pictures on the walls. One of those frames includes his World War II medals.
We are proud of Mr. Smith's service and are thankful for his devotion to God, Country, and family. We wish him many more years of good health and will be sure to wish him a happy 98th birthday on November 6th.
