Lt. Commander Richard Marion Smith. Richard is a true son in every sense of the word. He entered the camp on a direct lineage from his gggradfather William Cody Back. He was born to Mrs. Stella Smith Elam (wife of the late Chester Elam) and the late Ray Jett. He is a devoted grandson to his grandmother Lula Smith, demonstrating to all his devotion to his family by the quality of care and love he exhibits. He married Tina Libby Day and lives happily between the bridges on route 7. He is an avid SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) member and has won several shooting events. Most recently he came in third place overall at Hooten. His wife placed 6th place overall (she has been the state champion for a couple of years). He was the runner up in a national bow contest in years past (his wife won the world title in 1990). His handle is "Cherokee Big Dog" and his wife's alias is "No Purse Nez". He is a retired art teacher and bus driver. His artwork is well known in through out the area and a painting entitled "Engaged on Leatherwood Creek" is currently featured on our website. He attended Letcher High School and participated in baseball, holding down the catcher position. He is a charter member of the camp and has been instrumental in its growth development over the years. He has taken a leading role in all camp activities and has been influential in keeping the camp focused on the goals set forth ten years ago. He currently holds the position of Lt. Commander of the Camp and also serves at the Lt. Commander of the eastern Kentucky Brigade, Southern Division. He vividly portrays many characters (Melungeon, Civil War, Revolutionary, Cowboy) in his education skits and speeches through out the area. He has been a true friend to all and has enriched our lives by being a part of our many projects. Having grown up with Richard, this fielder can honestly state that he knows of no other person that exemplifies a true man of character and he is the embodiment of a southern gentleman. Ladies and gentleman let us tip our kepis and offer a rebel yell to our friend, our comrade, and our pardner: our own Richard Marion "Poncho" Smith.
[Camp Newsletter]