OUR TEAM

Get to Know the Faces behind Riggs-Hamilton American Legion Post 20

As with all great organizations, it begins with great leadership.

Louis Hardy

POST COMMANDER

Louis enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2011, embarking on a journey that would shape his professional life. Boot camp at MCRD San Diego tested his mettle, instilling in him the discipline and resilience synonymous with the Marines. Following this rigorous initiation, he honed his combat skills at USMC combat training in Camp Pendleton, preparing for the challenges ahead.

His path diverged towards specialization at Lackland Air Force Base, where he underwent intensive training to become a 5831 Correction Specialist. Graduating from this demanding program marked a pivotal moment as he embarked on his role within the military justice system. Stationed at Camp Lejeune North Carolina, he found himself immersed in the operations of the MCI East Regional Brig, where his dedication and proficiency earned him the rank of Corporal before concluding his service in 2016.

Transitioning to civilian life, he returned home with a wealth of experience and a commitment to serving his community. Joining the Pope County Sheriff's Office, he now serves as a Corporal in the patrol division, bringing his military expertise to law enforcement operations on a local level. Additionally, his involvement with the honor guard team of the Arkansas Sheriff Association underscores his continued dedication to duty, participating in law enforcement events and solemnizing funerals across the state with respect and honor.

E-Mail

Phone #

Department Commander

Antoine 'Tony' Gordon

Area Vice Commander

Dave Benson

Kyle "Derek" Jones

First Vice Commander

After enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 2006, Derek completed boot camp at Naval Station Great Lakes, followed by further training at Naval Air Station Oceana. He was ultimately assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron VFA-81 Sunliners as an Aviation Machinist Mate and completed three deployments. Subsequently, he transferred to Strike Fighter Squadron VFA-106 Gladiators, where he was promoted to Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class.

Transitioning to civilian life, Derek initially worked at Pope County 911 before taking a position at the Pope County Detention Center, where he was able to advance to the Patrol Division where he currently serves advancing to the rank of Patrol Corporal.

Active within his community, is a member of the Pottsville Masonic Lodge #333, he furthers protecting his community on his own time as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Crow Mountain Fire Department, Derek furthermore serves as a Drill Sergeant for the River Valley Explorers helping mold young minds to advance to one day possibly becoming a first responder.

Randy Ownes

Second Vice Commander

Susan Noland

Adjutant

Susan brings a wealth of military experience and a deep sense of commitment to her role. A former Army 31C (Army Radio Operator-Maintainer), she traces her journey back to her roots in Russellville High School, where she graduated in 1990. It was during her time serving at Ft. Belvoir, Virginia, that she crossed paths with her husband Bart who is a Russellville Fire Fighter and Medic, forging a bond grounded in shared service and dedication.

Susan's career is marked by a diverse array of experiences, reflecting her versatility and proficiency. From the bustling metropolis of Korea to the tranquil shores of Okinawa, and even within the corridors of power at the Pentagon, she has left her mark in communications, navigating the complexities of military operations with skill and precision.

Now, in her role as Adjutant, Susan channels her extensive background and unwavering dedication to support the mission and the individuals under her care. Her journey is a testament to her steadfast commitment to service and her unwavering resolve to excel in every endeavor she undertakes.

John Stockton

Sgt. At Arms

Cole Hendrix

Immediate Past Commander

Cole served Riggs-Hamilton Post 20 Russellville, AR and The District 16 as the Commander from 2022-2024, his dedication and leadership is that of which we are all grateful for. With his decision to continue his education to achieve his doctoral degree, he has handed the reigns over to a very capable Louis Hardy to continue his quest in revitalization and rebuilding.

Cole served as a Combat Medic in the Arkansas Army National Guard 39th Infantry Brigade 2/153rd Infantry Batallion in Searcy, AR from 2010-2016 (Global War on Terrorism). During that time he was state activated for 2 winter storm responses and 1 tornado response. During his service, he trained with mortars, recon, uparmored infantry, light infantry, aid station, and ambulance units.

While using his GI Bill benefits and in the ROTC program at Arkansas Tech University, he was a charter member for the student organization Service Members and Veterans of America (SMVA) and served as secretary, of which he is now the chapter advisor. Currently, he is the Outreach and Services Coordinator for Veterans Upward Bound which assists veterans and service members in gaining access to post-secondary education. Along with being Commander of Riggs-Hamilton The American Legion Post 20, he is also the Commander for our 16th district of Arkansas American Legion. He is a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxillary, Marine Corps League affiliate, the River Valley Veterans Coalition, the Arkansas Veterans Coalition, and the SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society.

Words cannot describe the role that Cole has had in ensuring that Riggs-Hamilton American Legion Post 20 always stayed on track. His continued communication with other local, state, and national organizations means that Cole is one of our greatest assets in listening to the pressing needs of the post and connecting with the necessary organizations to meet the needs of the post to be able to serve at all levels local and abroad.