Jim Dailey

Stephan McAteer and the MacArthur Military History Museum

Government employees often get a raw deal lumped under the concept that they are paid too much, work too little and care less about the task at hand.  Fortunately this is a perception, not fact … the real facts being,  most government workers do care, work exceptionally hard, are underpaid, love their jobs and do it well.

One of these that has shown his passion for the task, is paid less than he could get elsewhere, is doing a fantastic job and continues to build a museum the citizens of Little Rock can be proud of is Stephan McAteer, Exec Director of the MacArthur Museum of Military History.

In his quiet unassuming way he has built one of the best Military History Museums in Arkansas.  He  has resurrected a decaying historic structure, the Birth Place of General Douglas MacArthur, and through sheer will has returned it to its deserved glory days.  He has reenergized a Board of Commissioners, has lobbied successfully for funding from individuals, the city and the State and has organized significant events  reminding all of us of Arkansans who have served our Country in Military roles.

I have proudly watched this humble committed man keep his energy and passion and vision alive.  Thank you Stephan for a job well done.

Stephan McAteer is one of my Local Heroes.  Stephan, I salute you.