First Sergeant Rush Edward Nash Jr., from Jonesboro, served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam and Desert Storm conflicts. His awards include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal. Nash is a two-time combat veteran who served in Vietnam while he was in the Air Force and later in Desert Storm while in the Army. He sustained injuries in a helicopter crash that led to his retirement.

Nash has actively sought opportunities to assist veterans throughout northeast Arkansas. He volunteers to provide support for veterans from his own resources and has supported various veterans' organizations. Nash agreed to serve on the committee to develop the Veteran's Court in the Second Judicial District and later as the volunteer coordinator for mentors. He recruited veterans, attended national training at his own expense, and collaborated with the court weekly to assist veterans.

As part of his commitment to the Disabled American Veterans, Nash has sought funding to support the hospice program in northeast Arkansas. This funding has provided statues appropriate to a veteran's service, along with certificates presented to the veterans and their families. The program has been extended to include veterans under home hospice care.

In August 2018, for instance, Nash recruited a group of volunteers to clean up an overgrown yard and perform home repairs for the widow of a Vietnam veteran who died from cancer due to Agent Orange exposure. The yard had become so overgrown that an individual hid in the bushes and attempted to break into her home. Fortunately, the door was locked at the time.

Nash has also encouraged the Masonic Lodge to support local veterans by volunteering and supporting a veteran's day room at Arkansas State University, providing monthly coffee service and snacks.