The Lt. Col. Smith Field ribbon cutting.
Veterans Day 2015 Ceremonial Opening
The Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith Memorial Field synthetic turf conversion is completed. This newly improved field is being enjoyed by many soccer players.

Lt. Col. Gary Smith.Although he wore a uniform and carried himself with military bearing, he was not intimidating to the young women he coached in soccer at parks in Fairfax County, VA. Family, friends, former players and local officials gathered together to remember Retired Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith, United States Army. A field naming ceremony took place in April 2012 at rectangular field #5 at Grist Mill Park in the Mt. Vernon District. See the aerial view map.

Don Beyer logo.

Anonymous donor
His wife Ann recalled his passion for sports. "Gary loved sports so much — all through his youth, and far into adulthood. He coached so many teams, including our daughters', both when we lived overseas and here at home. In the 1980s, our girls were interested in playing soccer. Gary checked a book out of the library about coaching soccer and coached one group of girls for over 12 seasons. When you coach youth sports, you can really make an impact on your community. We are hoping to continue his positive legacy by improving this field."

Lt. Colonel isignia.Ann also recalled his service to country adding, "Gary cherished his Soldier's Medal, which he received for heroism. A helicopter he was riding in in Vietnam crashed and caught fire. He went back to the wreck, and despite the intense heat and danger of explosion, rescued another soldier trapped inside. He was always proud of serving his country." Lt. Col. Smith, a civilian employee of the Army at the time of his death was attending a meeting at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 struck.

As a soccer coach, he is remembered fondly for his calm demeanor and soothing voice. He coached Lee-Mount Vernon Soccer Association teams that played at Grist Mill Park. Ann decided that providing a positive place where young people can play and learn teamwork will be a fitting tribute to honor the life of her late husband.

Lt. Col. Smith Field.The Fairfax County Park Foundation is supporting the fundraising effort to facilitate the conversion of the Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith Memorial Field to a state-of-the-art synthetic turf field with greater player capacity, a smooth, competitive surface and fewer maintenance needs.The capital campaign helps to provide $1 million for this special project in honor of a hero.

The Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith Memorial Field synthetic turf conversion is completed. This newly improved field is being enjoyed by many soccer players.

Memorial gifts to the Fairfax County Park Foundation made in honor Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith support the Honoring America’s Veterans outreach program.