In honor of Women's History Month, 7th Signal Command (Theater) is introducing a wider audience to women leaders who have critical roles in meeting the Command’s mission of executing theater-level DoDIN operations and providing the CONUS digital infrastructure for the U.S. Army and Joint Force partners. One of these outstanding leaders is Col. Kristy Perry, Commander, 93d Signal Brigade.
Coming from a long line of Service Members, Col. Perry, a dual military wife and mother of 5, has had a front-row seat to the hardships and triumphs of military families, drawing inspiration from her family’s military service, unwavering support, and commitment to their country.
"My mom, also from a military family, was the foundation and fortress that held the home front together; raising three children, managing a household, and maintaining her own career as an emergency room nurse, while supporting my Dad’s 30-year military career," said Col. Perry. “I watched my Dad live the Army values and I cannot express enough gratitude to him for setting the standard of what it means to serve.”
In her current role as the Brigade Commander of the 93rd Signal Brigade (Strategic), she is responsible for securing, defending, and operating the Army's portion of the DODIN-East of Mississippi, supporting over 140,000 warfighters across 47 posts, camps, and stations with a team of 2,000 Soldiers and Civilians.
“Over the past 23 years, I have had the opportunity to work with some of our Nation's most influential people,” said Col. Perry. "I am continuously impressed by the strength of and daily pressure put on our leadership, Soldiers, Non-Commissioned Officer Corps, and Civilians; who continue to excel with integrity and honor no matter what.”
When asked to name a woman who inspires her, Col. Perry offered a long list of role models, including her mother, aunt, and her own daughters; as well as her fellow female Officers, NCOs, Directors, and Lt. Gen. Maria Barrett, Commanding General, Army Cyber Command. She also recognized PFC Kimberly Pierre within her own unit who won a Best Warrior competition at age 19.
"There are so many remarkable women that make history each day; that are ambitious and driven leaders inspiring change in different ways and throughout all walks of life," she remarked.
Col. Perry believes that sharing women’s success stories and creating an environment that supports equality and offers opportunities for women to serve at all levels are crucial for recruiting and retaining women in the Army. Moreover, she places an emphasis on developing and encouraging the next generation of women leaders. She said it is important to be visible and stay authentic and humble when interacting with recruits and Soldiers.
"It is important to share our experiences, challenges, and triumphs. We demonstrate this through our daily actions; that being a Soldier, leader, and having a family is possible," said Col. Perry. “It may not always be easy; but at the end of the day you can look in the mirror and know that it was worth it for you, your family, and our country.”
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