- July 26, 2026
The Flagler County Sheriff's Office, the Knights of Columbus and family members helped World War II veteran Albert Smith celebrate his 103rd birthday.
The Palm Coast resident turned 103 on Saturday, July 18. His weekend celebration began on July 17 when Sheriff Rick Staly and FSCO deputies arrived at his house in a parade of vehicles to show their appreciation for Smith's service in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II.
On Smith's birthday, the Knights of Columbus arrived at his home with a large birthday cake. Numerous family members celebrated with Smith on both days, according to Jeffrey Kingdon, chairman of the Flagler County Veterans Advisory Council.
Smith "served our country during a time in this world when there was anger, arrogance, bigotry and the lust for power," Kingdon said. "And it ended because of other human qualities — leadership, faith, determination, selflessness, courage and the desire to defend our freedoms. The second World War brought out the best and the worst in a generation. Albert very bravely contributed to the best of the generation. That was the winning of WW ll. Good overcame bad. Thank you, Albert!"
