Charlie Smith

Smith calls in for an interview while Sue, Ping, Frank, and Ryan listen, February 2018.

Smith calls in for an interview while Sue, Ping, Frank, and Ryan listen, February 2018.

Charlie Smith was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1939.  He served the State of Alaska in many capacities, including as Deputy Head of the State of Alaska Retirement system, Director for Highway Safety, and as the first State Director of Motor Vehicles. He was also the National Guard lieutenant in charge of Juneau’s Guard detachment during the 1971 Alaska Airlines plane crash outside of Juneau. 

"I was a political appointee...I survived five governors, which I don't know too many people who did as a political appointee!" 

 

Alaska Airlines flight 1866

1971 - Labor Day - National Gaurd - Armory