In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, the U of A proudly honors the service, sacrifice and ongoing contributions of veterans and military members within our campus community. Their leadership, dedication and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen our institution. Observed each May, Military Appreciation Month is a time to reflect on and express gratitude for the courage, service and selfless commitment of all who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Armed Forces.

In this Military Appreciation Month spotlight, we recognize Allen Porter for his dedicated service to both the U of A and the United States Army. A retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class (E-7), Allen served in both the Active and Reserve components and is currently in the Retired Reserves. In the Q&A below, Allen shares insights about his military journey, his nearly 13 years of service at the U of A and how his early passion shaped his path to and through military service.

What is your current position at the U of A?

I am a Certified Police Officer with the University of Arkansas Police Department, serving as a staff member dedicated to campus safety and community outreach.

How long have you worked at the university?

I began my service in July 2012, so I have proudly worked at the university for nearly 13 years.

What branch of the military did you serve in, and what was your rank (current or at the time of separation)?

I served in both the Active and Reserve components of the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of E-7, Sergeant First Class. I am currently in the Retired Reserves, awaiting eligibility to begin receiving retirement benefits.

What inspired you to join the military?

While there are many honorable reasons to serve, my initial motivation came from necessity. As a young man, I trained extensively in Tae Kwon Do and entered the Army in 1984 with aspirations of joining the All-Army Tae Kwon Do Team and competing in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, where Tae Kwon Do debuted as an exhibition sport.

How long did you serve, and where were you stationed?

I enlisted through the Delayed Entry Program in January 1984 and entered active duty in August of that year, first stationed in Korea. I later served at Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort Belvoir, Virginia (in the Reserve); and after a brief separation, rejoined the Reserves in 1995. I completed deployments to Qatar (eight months), Iraq (one year) and served on a Homeland Defense mission in the U.S. for about four years. I was also assigned to units in Iowa and, eventually, Camp Robinson in Little Rock.

What led you to pursue a career in higher education or your current field?

Working for the Illinois Department of Corrections, I became disheartened seeing individuals repeatedly return to prison. I transitioned into policing to try to make a difference from the outside. While on a Homeland Defense mission, my family moved to Arkansas, and after that tour, I joined them. After a short time with the Benton County Sheriff's Office, I received a call from UAPD. Colleagues had told me I'd be a great fit for a university police department, and I now believe that's exactly where God intended me to be. I truly feel I'm in the best place possible—helping others every day in a meaningful way.

How have your military skills or experiences contributed to your success, and in what ways have they enhanced your work with students, staff or faculty?

Military service taught me the importance of understanding rules, procedures and the reasons behind them. As a senior NCO, I gained insight into leadership, accountability and the "why" behind the "do." My experience instilled teamwork, self-awareness and discipline—skills I use daily in law enforcement and in my interactions with the campus community.

What is one of your most meaningful memories from your time in the military?

While stationed in Korea, I had the rare opportunity to train with the elite 707th Special Mission Group—nicknamed the "White Tigers." I didn't make the All-Army Tae Kwon Do team (which was formed stateside just before the 1988 Olympics), but I did train with an exceptional instructor, earn my black belt and even compete in a full-contact exhibition match in front of a crowd. I broke my jaw but won the fight—a memory I'll never forget.

What does Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day mean to you personally?

For many veterans, recognition feels undeserved because the true heroes are those who didn't make it back or those who returned but still carry the weight of their service. Their sacrifices illuminate our paths and allow us to be seen as heroes. I'm humbled to stand in their shadow.

How do you stay connected to the military or veteran community?

I can often recognize a fellow veteran from a distance. There's an unspoken connection—a silent promise: "I'm here, day or night." Whether it's in person or a voice on the line, that sense of duty and camaraderie never fades. A handshake, a kind word or a shared smile is sometimes all that's needed.

What advice would you give to other veterans or former military members entering the civilian workforce?

The transition can be jarring. Civilian life may lack the structure and respect we're used to, but the values and discipline instilled in us through service will guide us to success. Stay honorable, remain diligent and be humble. There are still teams out here — just different uniforms.

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About the Armed Forces Employee and Colleague Resource Group: The AFECRG is a voluntary, employee-led organization that fosters a university community grounded in the principles of equal opportunity. We promote mutual respect, celebrate the contributions of faculty and staff, and support professional growth. Our group is committed to nurturing a culture of collaboration and providing opportunities that advance career development. Through community engagement, cultural enrichment, career advancement and holistic care, we empower employees and contribute to the university's goals of research excellence, student success and becoming an employer of choice.

To know more about the AFECRG or if you are interested in joining the AFECRG, feel free to visit the Employee and Colleagues Resource Groups website.