Originally from Sulphur Louisiana, Duncan Smith started his military career by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1987. While studying at LSU, he was activated into the United States Marine Corps and participated in both Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Once he completed his active-duty commitment, Duncan returned to LSU to graduate in December 1992. 

Upon his graduation from LSU, Duncan was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the United States Marine Corps and was selected for Naval Aviation Training at Whiting Field. After receiving his pilot wings, he was assigned to HMLA-269 in New River, North Carolina to fly the UH-1N. He served as Airframes Division Officer, and NATOPS Standardization Officer. After numerous deployments with the “Gun Runners”, Duncan was assigned to VT-10 in Pensacola, Florida to train future Naval Flight Officers. He served as Safety and NATOPS Standardization Officer.

During his tenure with the VT-10 “Wildcats”, Duncan was granted an interservice transfer from the United States Marine Corps to the United States Air Force. Once the transfer was complete, he was assigned to Dover AFB, DE to fly the C-5 Galaxy in support of Military troops in both OIF and OEF. He was appointed as Safety and Standardization Officer and Operations Officer.  

After 15+ years in the cockpit, Duncan was assigned to 618th TACC where he was assigned as Chief of Mission Planning for all OIF/OEF aviation assets and culminated his assignment as Chief of Aeromedical Evacuation moving wounded warriors from OIF/OEF to critical care facilities.

Finally, Duncan was assigned to 608 AOC, Strategy Division Chief, where he was responsible for shaping component commander strategy to meet combatant commander intent within USSTRATCOM.

With more than 10,500 mishap-free flight hours, in 7 different aircraft, Duncan Smith retired from the United States Air Force with 26 years of active-duty service. Duncan joined Freeman Jet Center Lake Charles after 10+ years of pipeline and civil construction, most recently with D&G Construction where he was the Operations Manager.