Clinton Tyrone Williams - Betty J. Lewis Unsung Hero for November

At Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech), we believe in shining a light on those who make a difference behind the scenes -- the unsung heroes of our community. These individuals dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to uplifting others without seeking recognition. The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship was created to honor such individuals, recognizing selfless service, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication to education and community.

What is an Unsung Hero?

An unsung hero is someone who makes powerful contributions to the lives of others without expecting praise. They lead with humility, serve with heart, and make a lasting impact through dedication and compassion. At SAU Tech, this spirit is embodied in the legacy of Betty J. Lewis, whose life and work continue to inspire generations.

The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates:

• Selfless Service: A commitment to helping others and actively engaging with the community.

• Leadership Without the Spotlight: A person who inspires and leads by example, not for recognition, but because it's the right thing to do.

Each month, the SAU Tech Scholarship committee carefully reviews nominations and selects one individual who best represents these values.

November's Unsung Hero

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Clinton Tyrone Williams has served his country and community for over three decades across the Arkansas National Guard, U.S. Army Reserves, and Active Duty U.S. Army. Born and raised in Camden, Arkansas, LTC Williams embodies the values of honor, education, and service that define both the military and our SAU Tech family.

Early Life in Camden, Arkansas

LTC Williams was born on October 3, 1963, to the late Clinton and Florence Williams in Camden, Arkansas. Growing up in the Harmony Grove community, he graduated from Harmony Grove High School in 1982. Even before completing high school, Williams began his path of service, enlisting in the Arkansas National Guard in 1981 and completing Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Academic Journey and Military Commission

Following high school, LTC Williams attended Southern Arkansas University, where he became an ROTC Cadet -- a decision that would shape the course of his life and career. After completing his ROTC training at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, he was commissioned as a U.S. Army Officer at age 20.

His early military career led him to serve at Fort Campbell in Kentucky, Fort Riley in Kansas, and Fort Pol in Louisiana -- taking on critical leadership roles and mentoring soldiers under his command.

Service in Iraq and Afghanistan

LTC Williams' dedication was tested and proven through his deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Operation Iraqi Freedom

In 2007, during President George W. Bush's Iraqi Freedom Surge Strategy, LTC Williams was selected to serve as the Senior Advisor to the Iraqi Army Commander of Schools, Doctrine, and Training. His leadership was instrumental in:

• Expanding the Iraqi Army to its largest size in history

• Rewriting Iraqi Army combat doctrine

• Certifying all Iraqi Army units as combat-ready

For his outstanding accomplishments, he received the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and Combat Action Badge for direct engagement with enemy forces.

Operation Enduring Freedom

During his deployment to Afghanistan, LTC Williams served as the Theater of War Counter--Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Coordinator, overseeing the deployment and coordination of explosive ordnance assets across the country. His team implemented cutting-edge technologies for identifying, disarming, and researching IEDs -- innovations that saved countless lives.

For this service, he earned two additional Meritorious Service Medals and the U.S. Army Meritorious Unit Medal.

Leadership and legacy

LTC Williams concluded his distinguished career as the Brigade Commander of the U.S. Army 89th Sustainment Brigade, leading more than 3,200 soldiers, sailors, and Marines. Upon his retirement in 2012, he was awarded the U.S. Army Legion of Merit for a lifetime of honorable and exceptional service.

Returning Home to Serve Again

After retirement, LTC Williams returned to his hometown of Camden, Arkansas, where he continues his legacy of leadership and service. Today, he serves as Chairman of Union Grove Concerned Citizens LLC, and organization dedicated to youth education, empowerment, and community service throughout the region.

His commitment to building stronger communities reflects the same dedication he showed in uniform -- proving that leadership doesn't end with retirement; it evolves into mentorship and community action.

A Life of Service and Inspiration

From Harmony Grove High School to Southern Arkansas University, from the deserts of Iraq to the classrooms and community halls of Camden, LTC Clinton Tyrone Williams' story is one of perseverance, purpose, and patriotism.

At SAU Tech, we are proud to honor leaders like him through the Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship, celebrating individuals who live out the true meaning of service -- both to country and community.