In the News

The women of America's armed forces were the focus of this year's ARvets Salute, held Nov. 5 at the Arkansas Governor's Mansion.

Honorary gala chairman Jerry Jones, chief ethics and legal officer at Acxiom, told guests, "Tonight, this event is even more special because ... we are going to celebrate and especially honor women service members."

"Women have served our country with the same commitment, honor and leadership as have our men. This evening, we are going to celebrate a few of these women, these wonderful people who have nobly contributed during their service, as well as afterward, and who have so well represented Arkansas and our country," Jones added.

A silent auction and dinner were followed by a program recognizing Col. Anita Deason as Outstanding Female Veteran Pioneer, Gina Chandler as Outstanding Female Veteran, U.S. Rep. French Hill as Outstanding Veteran Supporter, J.B. Hunt Transportation Services Inc. as Outstanding Veteran Employer, the Arkansas Freedom Fund as Outstanding Veteran Organization and Staff Sgt. Rae Brown and her daughter, Specialist Lynda Volker in Recognition of Military Family Legacy.

The mission of ARvets is to improve the quality of life for service members, veterans and their families by improving access to resources and strengthening support systems.