Honors and Awards
Most Distinguished Alumni
David Smith was honored as the Most Distinguished Alumni in 2007, while Graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of West Florida.
International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame
Inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame on May 13, 2006. The award was presented to David Smith by Dale Petranech, Chairman of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, was for being the first person to swim from Africa to Europe, among other distance swims.
Hall of Merit for Humanitarian Work
Awarded the Hall of Merit in 2007. The award was presented to David Smith by Washington High School, joining the ranks of fellow alumni Maya Angelou, Danny Glover, Johnny Mathis and Lee Ann Meriwether in receiving The Hall of Merit for his outstanding achievements in exploration and humanitarian deeds.
The Spirit of Ecstasy Award
Awarded the Spirit of Ecstasy in 1977 during Queen’s Silver Jubilee of 25 years reigning. The award was presented to David Smith by Rolls Royce, with their minted silver Spirit of Ecstasy to honor people of special distinction. David Miln Smith was honored as “The Personification of Mind and Body.”
Adventurer of the Year
David Smith was honored as Adventurer of the Year for three decades of adventures, 1n 1982 by Montcalm Publishing.
Best Amateur Athlete
David Smith was nominated for The AAU James E. Sullivan Award in 1966 for recognition as the Nation’s Best Amateur Athlete.
All American 4 X 100 Relay Swimming
David Smith was honored for his achievement of the All American 4 X 100 relay swimming in 1957 at Menlo College.
Most Valuable Player Award and All-City Gold Medal
David was honored with the Most Valuable Player Award and All-City Gold Medal 50 and 100 yard freestyle in 1956, presented by George Washington High School.
Youngest Eagle Scout in History
It was a sign of explorations to come when at age 12 1/2 David was the youngest person in history to achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. San Francisco School Superintendent Clish and Mayor Robinson awarded David Miln Smith with the Eagle Scout Honor.