Little Rock Coaches has been awarded the 2026 Arkansas VFW Employer of the Year honor, recognizing the company’s commitment to hiring military veterans and supporting employees who continue to serve in the National Guard and military reserves.

The Arkansas Veterans of Foreign Wars presented the award after a nomination from members of Hot Springs VFW Post 2278. According to the nomination, the company’s support for veterans extends throughout its operations, from recruitment efforts to accommodating military service obligations.

Veterans Hold Roles Throughout the Organization

Military veterans are represented across multiple areas of the company, including driving, maintenance, management, and administrative positions.

According to Little Rock Coaches, nearly 40 percent of its workforce consists of military veterans or employees currently serving in the National Guard or reserves.

Terry Daniell, commander of Hot Springs VFW Post 2278 and a part-time driver with the company for more than five years, said owner Cary Martin has consistently recognized the strengths veterans bring to transportation operations.

In the nomination, Daniell noted Martin’s belief that veterans are disciplined, safety-conscious, and attentive to detail.

Martin said the company values the reliability, integrity, work ethic, and sense of purpose often found among military veterans.

Accommodating Military Commitments

Company leaders were also recognized for supporting employees who continue serving after entering the civilian workforce.

According to Daniell, management works with National Guard members and reservists to accommodate drill weekends, annual training requirements, and other military responsibilities.

He added that veteran drivers are frequently assigned to military transportation movements because they understand the importance of meeting schedules while treating service members with professionalism and respect.

Military Transportation Remains Part of the Operation

Little Rock Coaches is certified under the Military Bus Agreement, allowing the company to transport military personnel.

The company regularly moves active-duty service members and National Guard troops to training exercises at Fort Chaffee, Camp Robinson, and military facilities in neighboring states.

Martin said many veteran drivers view those assignments as an opportunity to continue serving fellow military members. Drivers often begin trips by thanking National Guard personnel for their commitment and service.

The company has also completed transportation contracts for Military Entrance Processing Stations in Arkansas and Texas.

Support Reaches Beyond the Workforce

Little Rock Coaches’ connection to the military community extends beyond employment and transportation services.

For years, the company has provided complimentary shuttle transportation for Memorial Day events held at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in Little Rock.

Veterans also serve in leadership and technical positions throughout the organization, while several office employees are military spouses.

Daniell said the company’s commitment to veterans is one reason he regularly recommends Little Rock Coaches to fellow service members seeking employment opportunities.

The Arkansas VFW Employer of the Year Award recognizes businesses that demonstrate exceptional support for veterans through hiring practices, workplace accommodations, and service to the military community.

The ProDriverPoint editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content for bus, motorcoach, chauffeur, and passenger transport professionals. Each article is built to reflect real-world experiences, industry updates, and insights that drivers can actually use on the job.

Last updated: June 17, 2026

Source: Bus and Motorcoach News

Image Source: Little Rock Coaches, Bus and Motorcoach News