In June 1966 he was assigned to the 11th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand.

After completing his combat tour in January 1967, he was assigned to the 32nd Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, Royal Air Force Station Alconbury, England.

In September 1968 he returned to Craig Air Force Base's 3617th Flying Training Squadron as a T-37 instructor pilot, where he remained until his release from active duty in March 1971.

Smith joined the Air Force Reserve in June 1971 as a member of the 757th Special Operations Squadron, Youngstown Municipal Airport, Ohio, flying the A-37B Dragonfly.

In July 1982 Smith was assigned to the 434th Tactical Fighter Wing, Grissom Air Force Base, Indiana, as deputy commander for operations.