Elmer Smoak Collection

Elmer Smoak was born in Anthony, Florida in 1922. He completed his elementary and high school education in Florida. After two years at the University of Florida he drove across the United States to work the summer on a Forest Service crew in the Blue Mountains of Oregon. On December 8, 1942 he enlisted in the US Navy. He served on the USS Luzon (ARG-2) repairing ships and landing craft. The diesel mechanic skills he acquired in the Navy served him well for the rest of his working years. In the spring of 1947 Elmer accepted a position with the Northern Pacific Railroad at the time of transition from steam to diesel engines. He worked for the railroad in Livingston, Montana, St. Paul and Brainerd, Minnesota, Tacoma, Washington and then back to Livingston, Montana. He finished his railroad career as the Round House Foreman in Missoula, Montana in November of 1980.