Medal of Honor Recipient to Receive Community Escort into Walnut Ridge on April 18

WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. — The Wings of Honor Museum, in coordination with local partners, will welcome retired U.S. Army Capt. Gary M. Rose with a community escort into Walnut Ridge on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Rose, a Vietnam War veteran and Medal of Honor recipient, will be escorted from Pocahontas beginning at 10 a.m., traveling south on U.S. Highway 67 into Walnut Ridge.

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The escort will proceed along Highway 67 to Fulbright Avenue, entering the campus of Williams Baptist University. The route will continue through campus along the historic Old Base Highway, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, before proceeding to the Wings of Honor Museum via Miller Drive and Custom Road. The escort will then turn onto Beacon Road and arrive at the museum.

The public is encouraged to line the escort route to show support and appreciation for Rose’s service and sacrifice as a Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient. Community members, veterans, students and families are invited to participate in this special moment of recognition.

Following the escort, the Wings of Honor Museum will host “They Said Yes! Brighter Days Ahead,” an all-day commemorative observance marking the 84th anniversary of the site selection of the Walnut Ridge Army Airfield.

The museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. The official program will begin at 11 a.m., where Rose will serve as keynote speaker.

A patriotic luncheon will follow at 12:30 p.m. Luncheon tickets are $20 per person and will be available at the door while supplies last.

The Wings of Honor Museum is located at 70 Beacon Road in Walnut Ridge, across from the Walnut Ridge Regional Airport.

“This is a unique opportunity for our community to come together and show appreciation for one of our nation’s heroes,” organizers said. “We encourage everyone to take part in welcoming Captain Rose to Walnut Ridge.”

For more information, contact the Wings of Honor Museum or the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce.