SSgt Ronnie Arrington was a Communications Technician in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years and held a master instructor certification for the USMC Electronics School. He first competed in rodeos after joining the Marines in 1972. Ronnie competed in Bareback Riding, Bull Riding and Saddle Bronc Riding.
Ronnie spent most of his career at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms, CA. He won the Marine Corps Air Station El Toro rodeo All Around title in 1975. He also won the 29 Palms military rodeo Bareback Riding title in 1978. Ronnie added rodeo announcing to his resume in 1983 and worked many rodeos in this capacity for nine years. In addition to his announcing rodeos, he was the voice of the Swirling Sands Mounted Drill Team that performed at rodeos and parades throughout California.
After several years competing in Bareback, Saddle Bronc and Bull Riding at the military world championship in Yuma, AZ Ronnie realized that the military cowboys needed an association to protect their rights and ensure that prize money was paid appropriately. He discussed this idea with some of the other cowboys and the Military Rodeo Association was formed with Ronnie as president in 1984. Ronnie continued to build the organization, often providing funds from his own pocket, until he was deployed to Okinawa Japan in 1986 and was forced to step down and allow others to take the reins.
When SSgt Arrington retired from the military he operated a cow/calf ranch operation in Oklahoma and was active as a 4-H Counselor. His volunteer efforts continue as he teaches recreational rehabilitation classes at the Fort Worth, TX Veterans Administration.
Born: 1948 in Cisco, TX
