Sergeant First Class Ralph Carter Ferguson of the Arkansas Army National Guard retired from Fort Smith. After graduating from Van Buren High School in 1985, Ralph enlisted in the United States Army Infantry. He served two combat tours, one in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the other in Operation Enduring Freedom. His awards include the Purple Heart, three Meritorious Service titles, two Army Commendation Medals, and six Army Achievement Medals. After over 20 years of active duty, Sergeant Ferguson transferred to the Retired Reserves in May 2006.

Upon retirement, Sergeant First Class Ferguson volunteered with several veteran service organizations such as Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the American Legion. He held positions including Senior Service Officer for both Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans, Chapter Commander, Adjutant, Finance Officer, and Chaplain for Chapter 1 of Disabled American Veterans, and Senior Vice Commander and Trustee for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8845.

In addition to his military-related volunteer work, Sergeant First Class Ferguson also volunteered with the Westark Area Council Boy Scouts of America. He served in various roles, such as Webelos Leader, Scoutmaster, and District Commissioner. He currently serves as the Order of the Arrow Chapter Advisor, Unit Commissioner, and Committee Chair for Troop 2. For his contributions, he has received several awards including the District Award of Merit, James E. West Award, Silver Beaver, Arrowhead Honor Award, Commissioner Key, Distinguished Commissioner Award, Adult Religious Award, Commissioner Award of Excellence, Scouter Training Award, District Vigil Honor, and the Wood Badge Beads with the 4th Bead for being named Scoutmaster of the National Youth Leadership Training Course.