04/17/2026
Medal of Honor Recipient to Headline Wings of Honor Museum’s 84th Anniversary Commemoration
The Wings of Honor Museum will host “They Said Yes! Brighter Days Ahead,” an all-day commemorative observance on Saturday, April 18, 2026, marking the 84th anniversary of the site selection of the Walnut Ridge Army Airfield.
Highlighting this year’s program, retired U.S. Army Capt. Gary M. Rose, a Medal of Honor recipient and Vietnam War veteran, will serve as keynote speaker during the official program beginning at 11 a.m. This marks the first time a Medal of Honor recipient has visited Walnut Ridge and Lawrence County, making the occasion especially significant for the community.
The museum will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission throughout the day.
A patriotic luncheon will follow at 12:30 p.m., offering attendees an extended opportunity to hear from Rose and reflect on his service, valor and sacrifice. Luncheon tickets are $20 per person, and advance reservations are required.
Media interviews with Rose will be available beginning at 2 p.m., with additional opportunities for public interaction later in the afternoon.
The Wings of Honor Museum is located at 70 Beacon Road in Walnut Ridge, across from the Walnut Ridge Regional Airport.
“This is a historic moment for our community,” said Terrence Ward, president of the museum. “To welcome a Medal of Honor recipient to the very grounds where so many answered the call to serve is something we will not soon forget.”
The event is part of ongoing efforts to honor the legacy of those who trained at the Walnut Ridge Army Airfield and ties into the nationwide America 250 commemoration.
For more information or to reserve luncheon tickets, contact the Wings of Honor Museum at 1-800-584-5575
