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Service Details

  • Federal Monarch Vessel ,

  • Universe Leader Vessel ,

  • Ore Mercury Vessel Able Bodied Seaman (AB) period Apr 1960 to -,

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Bio

Introduction:
Kinsley L. Smith, my father, began his seaman's career around the age of 16 in the turtling trade. In 1941 he enlisted in the Trinidad Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, serving his country until 1945 on ships assigned to support duties and minesweeping in the Caribbean. Later he worked for the Suwannee Shipping Company, West India Line, National Bulk Carriers including the Federal Monarch, Universe Leader, Ore Mercury, and National Maritime Union. My father and shipmate Mr. Garfield sailed on the S.S. Floridian for 15 years together. Mr. Garfield Ebanks tells the story that during a severe storm my father and he volunteered to climb up and replace the light on the masthead in a very dangerous situation. This heroic act earned the respect of the captain and thus they continued the Caymanian reputation for excellent seamanship. My father was devoted to his family and country and worked hard at sea all of his life, sending money home to support the family including the education of his children which was very important to him. We were always assured of his love and are forever grateful for his sacrifices on our behalf.

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Kinsley Leithan Smith

Personal details

National Heroes Distinction Award : Pioneer, Seafaring, Turtling,
Ports Visited:
Date of Birth : 5/May/1920
Deceased Date : 22/Sep/1990
Gender : Male
Country of Birth : Cayman Islands
District : West Bay
Area : West Bay, Grand Cayman