[1] In January 1917, he went aboard the USS Montana (ACR-13) and from 25 February to 22 March 1917, was ashore with the ship's landing force at Guantanamo, Cuba.

From August 1922 (was promoted to major in January 1923) to May 1926, Schmidt was a member of the Marine Corps Schools at Quantico, Virginia, first as a student, then as an instructor.

Then followed a year in recruiting at St. Paul, Minnesota, and a six-month tour of foreign service with the Sixth Regiment in China.

He returned to the United States to attend the Command and General Staff School, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and graduated on 18 June 1932.

Schmidt was assigned to Headquarters, Marine Corps as executive and personnel officer of the Paymaster Department in July 1938, in which capacity he was found upon the country's entry into World War II.

In December 1941, Schmidt was promoted to brigadier general and in January 1942, he was appointed assistant to the commandant of the Marine Corps.

His citation reads in part, "Against determined enemy resistance and incomparable natural defenses, Major General Schmidt skillfully directed the attack of his troops to capture and occupy this strategic island.

His sound judgment, distinctive administrative ability and unfailing devotion to duty were vital factors in the success of the entire operation."

Despite great obstacles in the way of its successful accomplishment, Major Schmidt built up an effective intelligence service, the work of which was of the greatest value to the Brigade in the planning and execution of its operations.