Col Mark A. Smith, USMCR (Ret), 54, of Indianapolis, passed away March 29, 2019. Born August 18, 1964, he was a graduate of Perry Meridian High School and earned a bachelor's degree in political science from IUPUI. Mark proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for 32 years, during which he was awarded the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star with Valor, among many others. He continued to serve his community as a Master Trooper for the Indiana State Police for 24 years, retiring in 2014. A devout Catholic and member of St. Mark Catholic Church, he was studying to become an Oblate at St. Meinrad Archabbey and was the founder of the Col Mark A. Smith Cancer Patient Foundation.
"He was a Marine's Marine; a friend to those he served with and a warrior willing to take the fight where it was needed. He had no quit button, no off switch, and was filled with dedication and love of God, family, country, and Corps."
"They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old."
— Laurence Binyon