Canada Kicks Ass - Victoria Cross winner just did his job

One of Canada's few surviving Victoria Cross recipients beamed with pride as Queen Elizabeth unveiled a plaque partly in his honor.

The people I consider heroes are all dead' Ernest SmithErnest Smith, 89, watched the proceedings from his wheelchair, his body weakened by age.
The plaque is actually to honor all 10 of the living recipients of the Commonwealth's highest military award, and those who have since passed away

"To remember the valour and gallantry of all holders living and departed of the Victoria Cross and George Cross, I ask you to receive this memorial into the custody of the dean and chapter, and invite you to dedicate it," the Queen said at Westminster Abbey.

Ernest Smith

Smith earned the decoration in northern Italy in 1944.
A private with the Seaforth Highlanders, he almost singlehandedly held off 30 German soldiers and three tanks.
"I was scared like hell," Smith said, recalling that life-or-death situation.
"Can't do anything about it; you just do your job and that's it."
Winning the cross changed his life, Smith said. As a hero, one has to watch one's words.
He doesn't use the "hero" word to describe himself.
"I don't consider myself a hero. That's what they asked me to do. The people I consider heroes are all dead. They got killed. They're buried. It's not me."

Written by CBC News Online staff

Source: CBC.ca