Residents of Arkansas should anticipate a noticeable increase in military traffic on the state’s highways from May 29 through June 15. This is due to the Arkansas National Guard’s annual training exercises, which involve convoys of large, tactical vehicles traveling to and from the Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center in Barling.

Impact on Local Traffic

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has issued a warning that these military convoys will move at slower speeds than regular traffic, potentially causing slowdowns and temporary congestion on the roads. Drivers are urged to be patient and to give these large vehicles the space they need to travel safely.

The Arkansas National Guard (ARNG) has emphasized the importance of this training, noting that it is critical for soldiers to maintain their readiness and skills. ARNG Public Affairs Officer Col. Joel Lynch stated, “We urge the public to have some patience and use caution if they come up on a military convoy. We want our guardsmen to be able to get to and from training safely, while safely sharing the roads with our fellow Arkansans.”

Community Cooperation

Local residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and considerate when encountering military convoys on the road. The ARNG has requested that drivers help ensure the safety of both military personnel and civilians by maintaining a safe distance from these vehicles.

This annual training is a vital component of the National Guard’s mission to remain prepared for any situation that may arise, and community cooperation is essential to its success. By exercising patience and caution, Arkansans can support their National Guard in fulfilling its duties while ensuring road safety for all.

Original reporting: 5NEWS / KFSM (Fort Smith) — read the source article.