Ernest “Smokey” Smith, a member of the the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada regiment, disabled a 4- ton Panther Mark V tank from 10 metres away and then killed several German soldiers who came pouring out of it while helping to secure the River Savio on the Italian front during the latter stages of the Second World War.
Minutes later, he disabled a second tank and then carried an injured comrade to shelter.
He was later awarded the Victoria Cross for displaying valour “in the face of the enemy” for his actions.
Smith, the last living Canadian recepient of the award, died in his Vancouver home Aug. 3, 2005 at age 91.
