09/15/2025
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The gates of Camp Robinson swung open Sept. 13th as Soldiers, Airmen and civilians came together for Minute Man Day, an annual tradition that blends military pride with community spirit.
By sunrise, runners laced up for the open 5K and school cross-country races. On the PT field, competitors tested their grit in the Army Combat Fitness Competition, where civilians went toe-to-toe with Guardsmen in events of strength, endurance and determination. “It’s not just about lifting heavy or running fast,” said Spc. Kendall Goff of the 777th Aviation Battalion. “It’s about community, it’s about education — giving people a chance to see what we do and why it matters.”
Close by, visitors wandered between rows of Humvees and helicopters, climbing into the driver’s seat while Soldiers explained how the same machines are used by the National Guard on state missions. The smell of barbecue drifted across the grounds as local teams faced off in a cookoff, while food trucks lined the streets to keep the crowds fed.
The music of Charlie Rock, the 106th Army Band’s rock ensemble, carried over it all. For Spc. Allison Fisher, the group’s lead singer, performing in uniform makes it personal. “People see the uniform, but when they hear the music, they see us as people too,” Fisher said.
For Jennifer Thomas, longtime volunteer and former state employee, the event’s impact is simple. “Most people don’t see what the Guard does unless there’s a disaster,” she said. “This is their chance to come out, ask questions and see the heart behind the uniform.”
Cdt. Peter Jara agreed. Before he joined as an ROTC cadet, he joined the Minute Man Day fitness competition as a civilian. “I thought the military would be this intense, scary thing,” he said. “But here, I saw respect, camaraderie, and care. It completely changed my perspective.”
Article by: Staff Sgt. Bryce Colvert
| | |
Arkansas National Guard | 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team | 87th Troop Command | 77th Combat Aviation Brigade |142nd Field Artillery Brigade | 189th Airlift Wing Arkansas Air National Guard | 188th Wing, Arkansas Air National Guard | 106th Army Band
