We share the news today that Smoky's owner, trainer and companion William A. Wynne, age 99, recently passed into God's loving hands. He shared his final hours peacefully with his beloved family, whom he has deeply cherished. His storied lifetime, represented in word, photography, print and film, were especially poignant as he touched individuals with his spoken words, kindness and generosity. He will forever live in our hearts, not just as a WWII reconnaissance photographer, NASA research photographer, Hollywood and television entertainer and Smoky's beloved friend, but also as a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather of many, as well as a friend to all who were fortunate to meet, work, or engage with him. Peace be with you, Bill. You will forever live in our hearts as a person who has truly made the world a better place to live.

- The William A. Wynne Family

“I saw him on an ash limb by morning’s golden yellow light

Among shimmering green leaves after winter’s flight.”

- “Morning Song,” by William "Bill" Wynne

"SMOKY -- became a miracle -- the greatest dog I ever knew and far greater than any I have read about..."

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First Therapy Dog on Record

- Animal Planet

Purple Cross Award Recipient

- Australia's Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 2015

Best Mascot in the South West Pacific Area

- American Magazine, 1944