#250for250: Honoring America’s Living Veterans

Part of Nexfinity News’ series celebrating 250 exceptional veterans who embody American Exceptionalism

Frederick W. Smith’s journey from Marine Corps captain to founder of one of the world’s most successful logistics companies exemplifies how military leadership principles can transform civilian enterprise. After earning his economics degree from Yale, Smith served with distinction in Vietnam, where combat experience shaped his understanding of leadership, logistics, and mission accomplishment under pressure. His service as a rifle platoon leader and company commander in some of the war’s most challenging operations earned him the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts—decorations that reflect both his courage under fire and the sacrifices he made alongside his fellow Marines.

Smith founded Federal Express in 1971, revolutionizing the package delivery industry with overnight shipping and creating a global logistics network that employs hundreds of thousands. The concept itself drew from his military experience, where he witnessed the critical importance of rapid, reliable supply chains in supporting combat operations. His leadership philosophy, drawn directly from Marine Corps values, emphasizes taking care of people first—a principle that built FedEx’s reputation for reliability and service excellence. This people-first approach transformed FedEx into one of America’s most admired companies, with a corporate culture that mirrors the brotherhood and mission focus of the Marine Corps.

His commitment to fellow veterans extends far beyond corporate success. Smith’s record-breaking $65 million donation to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation represents the largest single contribution in the organization’s history, funding educational opportunities for thousands of military children who might otherwise struggle to afford higher education. This transformative gift ensures that the children of Marines receive the educational foundation they need to pursue their own version of the American dream. As co-chairman of both the World War II Memorial and the National Museum of the Marine Corps, he ensures future generations understand military sacrifice and service, preserving the stories of those who defended freedom across multiple generations.

Smith actively supports veteran transition programs, recognizing that the skills developed in military service—discipline, teamwork, adaptability, and mission focus—translate powerfully to civilian success. FedEx has become a leader in veteran hiring, with initiatives specifically designed to recruit, train, and advance former service members into meaningful careers. His 2024 Military Times Veteran of the Year recognition honors both his business achievements and his unwavering dedication to the military community, acknowledging a lifetime of service that extended far beyond his time in uniform.

Through FedEx’s veteran hiring initiatives, his personal philanthropy, and his leadership in military memorial projects, Smith continues demonstrating that the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment create lasting impact long after active duty ends. His story represents the pinnacle of American Exceptionalism—a combat veteran who took the lessons learned in service to his country and built an enterprise that changed the world, all while never forgetting his obligation to those who wore the uniform beside him. Frederick W. Smith proves that the greatest leaders are those who serve others first, whether on the battlefield or in the boardroom, and that the mission of supporting fellow veterans is one that never truly ends.