The following year, the American Civil War broke out. Although opposed to secession, Smith enlisted in the Fourth Georgia Volunteer Infantry of the Confederate States Army as a lieutenant. He became a captain in April 1862 and in June lost his right leg at the Battle of Oak Grove.
The following year, the American Civil War broke out.  Although opposed to secession, Smith enlisted in the Fourth Georgia Volunteer Infantry of the Confederate States Army as a lieutenant. He became a captain in April 1862 and in June lost his right leg at the Battle of Oak Grove.