News and Events
"Welcome Home 2007"
Military Family Night at the Arkansas State Fair
(Little Rock) On Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Veterans and their families came out to watch some lively entertainment provided by the 106th Army Band at this year's Arkansas State Fair. Veterans received free parking and admission to the fair and were presented with a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Commemorative coin. MG William Wofford, Adjutant General of the Arkansas Army National Guard spoke along with Governor Mike Beebe. Dr. Tom Patterson, MC for the event had this to say, "The 'Salute to Military Families' at the Arkansas State Fair gave our community a chance to rally around those who defend us and our freedom. Great weather and record-breaking State Fair attendance on October 16th made this a splendid day. Nearly 1,500 service members, veterans and family members made use of the special free admission for this event. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, was honored to lead this effort. We greatly appreciate the generous participation of Governor Beebe, Major General Wofford, Amber Bennett (Miss Arkansas 2006-07), Troy Bridges, Little Rock Air Force Base and the Arkansas Army National Guard. As well we appreciate the generosity of the Arkansas State Fair management and staff, FOX16/Clear Channel Communications, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Anheuser-Busch. The evening concert by the Arkansas Jazz Orchestra from Hot Springs was a perfect end to a memorable day. It helped to underline our one unambiguous message: Thank you!"
