Colonel Jesse J. Lewis Jr., National Guard Army Reserve (Retired), Fort Smith

Colonel Lewis was born in Danville, VA, and is a 1964 graduate of Southwest University. Upon graduation, he joined the army and graduated from the Officers Candidate School in 1966. After a tour in Vietnam and completion of active duty, he transferred to the National Guard. His civilian employer brought him to Fort Smith, where he continued his service.

His awards include the Army Air Medal, the Army Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Army Legion of Merit. Colonel Lewis retired after a combined 32 years of service in the National Guard and Army Reserves.

During his dual careers, Colonel Lewis remained active in his community, civic, and military support organizations such as the Sebastian Masonic Lodge #706 and the Victory Masonic Lodge. He is a member of the Scottish Rite, 32nd Degree, and a charter member of the Darby Rangers Military Officers Association of America, where he currently serves as president.

Jesse is a life member and past commander of the American Legion Post #31 and a member of the Army Officers Candidate School Hall of Fame. Colonel Lewis retains life memberships in the Reserve Officers Association, the American Divisions Veterans Association, and the National Rifle Association.