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World War II Navy veteran Gretta Smith celebrates 101st birthday

Gretta enlisted in the Naval Reserve WAVES on Jan. 6, 1944, at the age of 20. She celebrated her birthday with family at Good Sam's Assisted Living Residence in Palm Coast.

By Guest
| 1:14 p.m. September 27, 2024

Naval Reserve WAVES veteran Gretta Smith celebrated her 101st birthday on Sept. 21 at Good Sam's Assisted Living Residence in Palm Coast. Courtesy photo

Palm Coast Observer
News

Margaretta "Gretta" Busch Woodward Smith, a distinguished World War II veteran, celebrated her 101st birthday with her family on Sept. 21 at Good Sam's Assisted Living Residence in Palm Coast.

Gretta in 1944 as Petty Officer 3rd Class in the Navy WAVES. Courtesy photo

Gretta served as a U.S. Navy Storekeeper 3rd Class (Petty Officer 3rd Class) during the WWII. She enlisted in the Naval Reserve WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) on Jan. 6, 1944, at the age of 20.

The WAVES was a groundbreaking branch of the Naval Reserve, established to replace men stationed ashore and increase the number of sailors available for sea duty. More than 100,000 women served in the WAVES during World War II, marking the beginning of women’s permanent contribution to the Navy, and eventually paving the way for women to be accepted in all branches of the military.

She was honorably discharged on Aug. 1, 1945, from the U.S. Naval Barracks (Women’s Reserve) in New York.

Gretta’s service to her country was recognized with the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, which she received for her dedication and commitment during a critical time in U.S. history.

Her legacy of service extends beyond her military contributions. She is the daughter of World War I veteran U.S. Army Cpl. Joseph W. Busch, continuing a proud family tradition of military service.

Gretta is married to Albert Smith, who turned 101 in July.