Athletics | FeaturedNovember 07, 2025

UAFS to Host Military Appreciation Night Nov. 7

Written By: Rachel Putman

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith will host Military Appreciation Night on Friday, Nov. 7, honoring U.S. military veterans and active-duty service members with special admission, giveaways, and an on-court ceremony before the Lady Lions Volleyball team faces Newman University.

The event, held in Gayle Kaundart Arena at the Stubblefield Center, will begin at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. The first 100 attendees will receive a limited-edition UAFS camouflage hat.

 During the pregame ceremony, UAFS will recognize two members of the campus community for their military service: student veteran Jade Carry and retired Air Force Col. Carey Tucker. Chancellor Terisa Riley will present each honoree with a personalized plaque.

The ceremony will include the UAFS Army ROTC Color Guard, joined by area high school ROTC units carrying flags representing each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. UAFS student Katie Scowden will perform the national anthem, and the UAFS chapter of the Student Veterans of America will assist with the event. 

Military veterans and active-duty personnel will receive free admission.

General admission tickets start at $8, with reserved seats available for $12. Admission is free for current UAFS students, faculty, staff and members of the UAFS 60+ Club. Tickets available at UAFS Box Office.

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Jade Carry

Carry served in the United States Army from 2016 to 2019, attaining the rank of Specialist. She worked as a Drug Investigator in the Criminal Investigation Division’s Drug Investigation Department.

Her service was recognized with the Army Good Conduct Medal for professionalism and exemplary character, and the Army Achievement Medal for outstanding performance in her duties.

A native of Keota, Oklahoma, Carry is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and is set to graduate this fall. She currently serves as a VA Work-Study student at UAFS.

Reflecting on her military service, Carry said, “My time in the Army gave me the structure and work ethic I needed – something I’ll always be proud of.”

She attended the ceremony with her girlfriend, Saylee, her father, Jarred, and her nephew, Callahan.

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Colonel Carey Tucker (Ret.)

Tucker retired as a colonel after 30 years of service in the United States Air Force. He concluded his military career as Deputy Director for Logistics, Installations, and Mission Support for the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command, where he managed logistics operations supporting thousands of personnel and oversaw more than $4 billion in assets.

Throughout his career, Tucker commanded two major units, led multi-functional teams, and helped shape policies that enhanced mission readiness for both U.S. and NATO operations.

He now serves as Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer at UAFS. Reflecting on his service, he said, “In the military, I was tasked with protecting the health, safety, and welfare of those under my command. At UAFS, I see my role as an extension of that same duty – ensuring the well-being of our students and employees.”

His wife, Gretchen Tucker, joined him for the ceremony.

• Tags:
• Athletics
• Military Appreciation
• Student Veteran
• Volleyball
• Military and Veterans