Smith joined the United States Army Reserve in January 1996 as a Judge Advocate General 's Corps ( JAG ) officer , transferring to the South Carolina Army National Guard in the same role in August 1998 . In 2001 , following the September 11 attacks , Smith resigned his commission and enlisted as an infantryman , beginning basic training . In February 2007 , Smith deployed to Afghanistan as an infantry officer , part of Operation Enduring Freedom . He served as a combat advisor to Afghan National Security Forces in remote areas of southern Afghanistan . During his 12 month tour , he received the Bronze Star Medal , Combat Infantryman Badge , and Purple Heart . He remains a member of the South Carolina Army National Guard , at the rank of Major
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
James E. Smith Jr.