Cdr. Clarence O. "Smokey" Tolbert USN - Tishomingo, OK
N 34° 14.111 W 096° 40.966
14S E 713421 N 3790661
A memorial to Cdr. Clarence O. "Smokey" Tolbert USN stands in front of a restored Grumman F-11A "Tiger" at the Johnston County War Memorial at S Capital Ave and Ray Branum Rd, Tishomingo, OK.
Waymark Code: WMXAJM
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Date Posted: 12/17/2017
Views: 4
Initially, this Tiger was on display for many years on the grounds of the Murray State College campus in Tishomingo, but in 2009, it was restored, relocated, and rededicated here. A bronze plaque is a memorial to Commander Tolbert in front of the plane, showing off his wings and likeness, with this text:
This USN F-11A "Tiger" was last flown by #6 solo pilot 1968 Blue Angel Cdr. Clarence O. "Smokey" Tolbert USN. The supersonic Grumman F-11A "Tiger" saw duty as the primary aircraft of the Blue Angels from 1957-1968. At Smokey's request this aircraft was donated to the people of Johnston County by the USN upon its retirement in 1968.
Cdr. Clarence O. "Smokey" Tolbert USN.
Born June 3, 1939 to Elvie E. and Cleo P. Tolbert, Johnston County, Okla. Smokey was assisted by congressman Carl Albert in gaining an appointment to the US Naval Academy and graduated with the Class of 1962. He was the first US Naval Academy graduate to serve with the famed "Blue Angels" Attached to Squadron 56, aboard the USS Midway in his third tour of duty in North Vietnam, Smokey's A-7 aircraft was damaged by anti aircraft fire and crashed on November 6, 1972. He was listed Missing in Action until March 23, 1978, whereby the US Navy changed his status to Presumed Dead. Smokey was decorated many times receiving such medals as the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Navy Commendation Medal along with fourteen air medals and etc. Smokey served his country well with a great deal of pride and determination, completing over 175 combat missions making him a Johnson County favorite son.
His remains were recovered and returned in 1989, and he is buried in Troy, OK, not too far from here. His grave is marked with an impressive headstone that lists his accomplishments, and it may be visited here.