12 Jun 2013 Timeless appeal
by RaeLynn Callaway
I love highlighting heroes here in the 501. I am thankful for the men and women who sacrifice of themselves and their families for my freedom and the freedoms of this nation.
This past year I had the opportunity to work with a veteran and his precious family in building their beautiful home.
Shane Henry served in the United States Army Reserve just shy of six years. “I would like everyone to know how very important our Reserve and Guard Troops are to the support of our country,” Henry said. “As seen first-hand on the battlefield, they bring so much more than their military occupation (MOS) with them. These soldiers are often older with valuable life experience and typically have other expertise from their civilian job. This makes for a very wise and efficient portion of the Army. I had planned to make a career of the Army, at least through the Reserves, but turns out God had other plans for me.”
Shane served in the 420th Engineer Brigade made up of Heavy Combat Support and Combat Support Specialist. “We were basically civil engineers for the army but with M-16s and machine guns strapped to our bodies while driving a bulldozer or surveying the land. Sappers, Green Berets, Blackhawk helicopters, international forces, the quest for Osama and an amazing palace — quite an experience.”
Shane ultimately ended up in Iraq with the Fourth Infantry Division in early 2003. He spent most of his time in Tikrit, Sadaam’s hometown. Iraq was also where Shane’s service and career were cut short with a disabling injury to his hand. “The disability and claims process was very difficult for me, and I had a college degree and one year of law school experience. I literally learned ‘first hand’ how challenging living life and finishing school with a disability could be.”
Shane’s injury led him to pursue disability through his law practice. “My eyes were opened to the great need in that area,” Shane said.
In 2006, Shane married Katherine (Katie) Hinkle. They moved to Conway in 2008 when Katie accepted a job with the University of Central Arkansas. Soon after moving to Conway, Shane opened his law practice that specializes in estate planning, social security disability and adoptions. “Katie graduated from UCA before starting law school at the U of A. She was excited about returning to her alma mater,” Shane said.
The couple was also drawn to Conway because of its family friendly atmosphere, central location and proximity to family. They chose Centennial Valley because they were looking for a larger lot for their son, Cooper, to play, and enjoyed the open feel of the lots on the golf course. “Cooper loves to be outside. We designed our outdoor space with his interests in mind. We enjoy the open floor plan of our living area. By incorporating large windows and glass doors, we were able to ‘bring the outdoors in.’ This allows us to watch Cooper playing outside and enjoy the beautiful pool and golf course view.”
“We wanted to maintain a timeless and casual feel throughout the entire project. We have a very laid back style and wanted our house to feel like a home . . . not overly formal.”
A board certified interior designer, RaeLynn Callaway owns CYInteriors (raelynncallaway.com). She and her husband, Bart, have three children and live in Conway.
