Smith graduated in 2003 with a dual major in Mechanical and Nautical Engineering from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. He was the only student aboard the Hawkeye. Smith’s brother, Eric, spoke about how it had been Jerry’s dream, at an early age, to be a pilot and they are so proud of Jerry and his fellow shipmates.
“Jerry Smith, who was a young lieutenant, was on his way to a real, real bright career,” said Trent. “This is a real tragedy.”
