Ozark Chapter Reactivation Marks a New Era for AG Professionals in the Midwest

AG professionals from across the Fort Leonard Wood area came together on 11 March 2026 to celebrate the reactivation of the historic Ozark Chapter at the 43d Adjutant General Battalion (Reception). The event brought together Soldiers, civilians, retirees, and leaders from the AGCRA National Executive Council, including Sergeant Major (Ret.) Dr. Mark Clark and Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Ret.) David Betancourt.

Originally chartered on 12 March 1992, the Ozark Chapter once served as a cornerstone for AG professionals throughout the Midwest. Its original activation was led by Colonel Earl M. Simms, Chief of the AG Corps; Sergeant Major R. Milkey, Sergeant Major of the Corps; and Major General William H. Gourley, Honorary Colonel of the Corps. Among those present at the original activation was First Sergeant Lindy Northam, then serving as the acting Bravo Company First Sergeant for the 43d AG Battalion. Now, 34 years later, Master Sergeant (Ret.) Northam sat in the audience alongside his wife, witnessing the chapter’s reactivation—a powerful full-circle moment for the Corps.

The ceremony was led by Ozark Chapter President Captain Jordan Balzano and Executive Vice President Command Sergeant Major Mia Gillens, with Dr. Clark serving as part of the official party. Addressing a packed auditorium, the speakers emphasized the importance of the AG Corps, the role of AGCRA, and the responsibility of the Ozark Chapter to carry forward a legacy of excellence.

The 43d AG Battalion Commander and acting Vice President of History, Lieutenant Colonel VanAllen, attended alongside fellow chapter leaders and reflected on the significance of the event.

“It was a very impressive event,” said VanAllen. “You don’t see ceremonies like that outside of division-level events very often, and I’m proud we were able to set the tone for the chapter moving forward.”

Captain Balzano opened the ceremony with a message that resonated across the audience:

“It’s a great day to be an AG Soldier.”

He reinforced the chapter’s enduring purpose:

“The Ozark Chapter will do a lot. We will host LPDs, create opportunities for spirited discussion, but most importantly, we exist to be a home and a community for all AGs.”

Following the formal ceremony, the chapter transitioned into a guided professional discussion led by Dr. Clark and National Senior Vice President CW5 (Ret.) Betancourt. Engaging directly with the Ozark Chapter’s leadership, they shared insights on building and sustaining a successful chapter, emphasizing the importance of strong foundations, engaged membership, and deliberate leadership.

“Today we celebrate, but tomorrow the work begins,” Dr. Clark remarked, closing the session with a clear call to action.

The Ozark Chapter remains open to all HR and AG professionals across the Midwest, including Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Leavenworth. Those interested in joining can connect through the AGCRA National website to receive updates on events, professional development opportunities, and chapter initiatives.

The reactivation ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the Ozark Chapter plaque, commemorating the founding reactivation members. The event not only honored the legacy of those who came before but also signaled a renewed commitment to building a strong, connected, and forward-focused AG community in the region.