Page 13 - March 2017

Rob was promoted to the rank of sergeant in July 1996.
As most new sergeants can understand, his duties and
responsibilities expanded along with his great pay
raise! As time moved on, Sgt. Smith began to learn the
duties of his new position and the responsibilities that
went with it. In the years that followed, Rob continued
to serve as one of the unit’s instructors, training new
personnel and conducting continuation training on the
assigned crews. Additionally, he was assigned the duty
of unit safety officer, representing the unit commander
on all safety-related matters. When the department
moved to replace the helicopter fleet, Rob played an
integral role. He assisted in developing detailed plans
and evaluations of several different potential aircraft
and held a decision making position on the acquisition
team.
Rob continued to climb the ladder of both rank and responsibility. In April 2003, Rob was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.
With this promotion, Lt. Smith assumed the duty position of the Air Wing’s Executive Officer. Once again, Rob found
himself in a new position that required more time and energy and more to learn. As XO, Rob was the operations officer of
the Air Wing, responsible for scheduling, budgeting and conducting all unit training and missions. He was instrumental in
starting and maintaining the unit’s firefighting mission and night vision flight capabilities.
In December 2006, Rob assumed command designation for the Air Wing. Not long into his time as unit commander, Rob
found himself chairing the committee on another aircraft fleet replacement. He brought a painstakingly detailed approach
to the replacement process, ensuring that the department would acquire a modern, reliable and sustainable aircraft that
would suit its needs for years to come.
As many of those who leave the MSP family know, the greatest satisfaction upon completing your last tour of duty is to
know that you had an impact, that you have left the place better than when you got there. Rob Smith – ever modest
and humble -- can certainly be assured that such is the case with his career. In his career in the Air Wing, he has flown
five different helicopters and has held every rank and duty position in the unit. He was personally responsible for the
successful implementation of two aircraft fleet replacements consisting of eight aircraft acquired through appropriations
of well over $60 million. Above all, he was personally responsible for “launching” the Air Wing into the 21st century with
great success. Best of luck in civilian life, Rob, and God Speed!

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