Alum Inspires Cadets at R.O.T.C. Ball

Colonel Peyton E. Smith addressed the C-N R.O.T.C. at their annual Military Ball on February 23. Smith graduated from C-N in 1985 and was a member of the R.O.T.C. program all four years. Smith encouraged students to remain constant in their answer to the "call of duty" and told them just how proud he was of their commitment.
"He talked mainly about our duties as not only soldiers but Americans," said Cadet Sergeant Major Jake Austin, "The one comment he made that most impressed me was the fact that he told us he was proud of us even though that was the first day he met us. He said he was proud of us because we stepped up and answered the call of duty."
In his introduction of Colonel Smith, Cadet Battalion Commander Adrian Van Cleve explained the example Smith modeled for current R.O.T.C. students. "Sir, you know full well what it is like to balance the schedules of a cadet and student at Carson-Newman and know full well the hardships that it involves," Van Cleve said. "The care and devotion that you placed into it is an inspiration to all of the cadets here at this campus for we know that it can now be done."
Smith grew up in Morristown and graduated from Morristown-West High School, just as current Cadet Sergeant Austin. "I also liked the fact that he was from my hometown and even attended the same high school that I did. He wrestled and I played baseball," said Austin.
Upon leaving C-N, Smith pursued further military schooling and, in addition to his Bachelor of Science in automatic Data Processing Systems from C-N, he holds a Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence from the National Defense Intelligence College and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
Smith held a variety of positions during his commission including the Director of Intelligence for the U.S. Army Office of Military Support in Washington, D.C. Currently, he is serving brigade command and duties with the Defense Intelligence Agency in D.C.
The Colonel is also decorated with many awards that include the Bronze Star Medal, which is awarded on terms of bravery and meritorious service.
R.O.T.C. students were impressed with Smith's attitude and outlook on life. "What impressed me the most about COL Smith was that he was a quiet humble man that I knew was a great leader who was respected by his men," said Austin..
Smith is married to a 1986 C-N graduate, Lynne Smith, and has three children - Peyton, Cassie, and Wesley.