A new mural at Dexter B. Florence Memorial Field Airport (KADF) in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is paying homage to a local veteran.
The mural, which was officially dedicated on July 26, 2024, highlights one of the general aviation aircraft seen flying over Arkadelphia daily. These aircraft are used for personal use, farming, and by aviation students at Henderson State University, airport officials noted.
The background of the mural is a sepia tone and is meant to look like schematics of the life of the late Dexter B. Florence, a U.S. Army veteran from Arkadelphia.
Florence was a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Army Aviation Brigade during the Vietnam War. On Oct. 26, 1972, he was flying at tree-top level during a scout mission when a command-detonated mine was set off. The OH-6A Loach aircraft Florence was flying was shot down, and Florence was evacuated to Japan to receive care for his injuries. Florence succumbed to his injuries three days later on Oct. 29, 1972.
“We’ve long recognized Lieutenant Florence’s impact on aviation in Arkadelphia through naming our airfield after him — Dexter B. Florence Memorial Field Airport — and this is just a continuation of that recognition,” City Manager Gary Brinkley said. “Lieutenant Florence gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. His impact will forever be recognized in this mural, which we believe will become synonymous with our airport.”
The mural was completed by Jason White of White’s Artworks.
For more information: Arkadelphia.gov/Airport