National Guard Birthday Gala and Awards Ceremony
The Major General Harold L. Gwatney Award for Military Service was created by the Arkansas National Guard Foundation to recognize current or former military service members who have demonstrated sustained, exceptional service benefiting the military community in Arkansas. While a single significant achievement may qualify, this award emphasizes long-term service that has made an enduring impact.
The award is named in honor of Major General Harold L. Gwatney, a revered leader who served in the Arkansas National Guard from 1948 to 1989. MG Gwatney’s career is marked by his rise through the ranks, commanding units at every level from platoon to brigade. In 1981, he was appointed Adjutant General of the Arkansas National Guard by Governor Frank White and promoted to Major General. One of his lasting legacies was the establishment of the National Guard Professional Education and Training Center at Camp Joseph T. Robinson. MG Gwatney’s commitment to professional excellence serves as the inspiration for this award, which will be given annually to military members whose service reflects leadership, dedication, and community impact.
Colonel Don Sears exemplifies the ideals of this award through his distinguished military career and his continued dedication to Arkansas’s military community following his retirement. His leadership, mentorship, and support of both active and retired service members have created a lasting legacy, making him a model of service worthy of recognition at this year’s Gala.
Event Details
• Date: December 13, 2024
• Location: Still Ballroom, Robinson Center
426 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201
• Host: Ms. Elicia Dover, Local News Reporter
• VIP Reception: 5:00 p.m. – With Emcee and Special Guests
• No-Host Reception & Silent Auction: 5:30 p.m.
• Banquet Seating: 6:00 p.m.
Dress Code: Formal (Black Tie Optional) / Military Dress Uniform
Menu: Dual Entrée – Grilled New York Strip & Chicken Piccata
This year’s National Guard Birthday Gala and Awards Ceremony will be a memorable evening filled with celebration, recognition, and gratitude for those who have served with distinction. Join us in honoring Colonel Don Sears and recognizing the spirit of service embodied by Major General Harold L. Gwatney through this distinguished award.
Ticket and Sponsorship Information
Tickets for the National Guard Birthday Gala and Awards Ceremony are available now. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to support this prestigious event. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit:
https://www.angf.us/events/birthday-gala/
About the Arkansas National Guard Foundation: For more information about the Arkansas National Guard Foundation, it’s Mission and Program Areas please visit our website at [https://www.angf.us/].
Connect with us on social media:
• Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/arknationalguardfoundation/]
• LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkansas-national-guard-foundation]
• Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/ArkansasNationalGuardFoundation]
BACKGROUND ON ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD FOUNDATION: The Arkansas National Guard Foundation was established in 2013 as the successor to the National Guard Association of Arkansas Insurance Trust, which was created in 1967. Its mission is to provide charitable and educational support to members of the Arkansas National Guard, their dependents and survivors, veterans, and other charitable organizations that support veteran communities in Arkansas. The Foundation continues to expand its impact by implementing programs that enhance education, job training, emergency relief, youth programs, legacy preservation and overall readiness for Arkansas National Guard Soldiers and Airmen.
For media inquiries please contact: Colonel (ret) Damon N. Cluck, 501-772-1270 or [email protected].
Arkansas National Guard Foundation
P.O. Box 663
North Little Rock, AR 72115
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/2724291-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/2724291-2
