Smith v. Smith

On 4 July 1966 the Smiths ceded their independence, each for the second time. Their marriage on that day brought to an end an extended liaison; to quote appellant’s counsel, it “broke up a beautiful friendship.” The appellant (Jerry) is a major in the Air Force. From an earlier marriage he has two children. Nine children (six of whom survive) were born to the appellee (Christine) as a result of her first marriage; she “thank[ed] goodness” their care and custody were the responsibility of her former husband. Her union with Jerry is childless.

In January 1967 Jerry was transferred from Tucson,…