Kelly Perry

Curt, Kelly, Arabella and Little Curt

Mrs. Kelly Perry

Tell me a bit about yourself.

My name is Kelly, I’m 31 years young. Born and raised in Chiefland, Florida. I am the youngest girl of seven children and daughter to two hardworking parents. I’m currently a stay at home mom of two strong spirited children, Arabella (6) and Little Curt (2); and wife to an Army Soldier, SFC Perry, Curtis.

Tell me about your wedding.

Our wedding was just amazing. We were married at Ellzey Methodist Church in Ellzey, Florida on December 18th, 2004. It was the cutest little white Church in the middle of nowhere, picture perfect. Our wedding was small and intimate, just the way we wanted it. I remember being so anxious to see Curt. It had been a while since we had seen each other since he lived in Texas, and I lived in Florida. He flew in the morning of our wedding, so I didn’t get to see him at all beforehand. I’ll never forget his smile as I entered the Church. Curt has a smile that can light up a room, with those huge dimples... I just melted, still do.

How long have you been married?

We’ve been married for twelve years this past December.

What is your husband’s occupation in the military?

Currently Curt is an OC (Observer- Controller) for OPSGRP (Operations Group) at JRTC (Joint Readiness Training Center). The JRTC OPSGRP provides training to Military Forces in a realistic environment to achieve Army readiness.

What are some of the blessings that you experienced as a military wife?

One of the biggest blessings are the people you meet and the relationships you make. They’re not just friends to us, they become our family. We spend holidays together, we celebrate our children’s birthdays together, we support each other, and help each other just the way a family would do. It really is something special.

What are some of the struggles that you have/are facing as a military wife?

Time! Time is our worst enemy; he steals so much of it whether it’s because of field training, duty, schooling, their everyday job or deployments. They are just gone so much and miss so much. So many birthdays, holidays and milestones celebrated without them. Deployments are a given struggle, it really needs no explanation. To be separated from your spouse for nine or twelve months… it’s not easy and you never get used to it, no matter how many times they deploy! And let’s not forget the emotions you experience until they are safely home and in your arms again; it can be overwhelming if you let it consume you.

How was life different for your children, than other kids their age?

The moving! Having to say goodbye to your home and friends, it’s difficult. I’m dreading the day when we move from here, especially now that Arabella is in school and has made so many sweet friends. Also, only having one parent for long periods of time; and one parent is not comparable to two, not by a long shot. It’s one of the big reasons why I’m a stay at home mom; I’m their constant, their security. I am so proud of them, though. They truly give me strength. The things these children endure at such a young age; they are strong, adaptable, brave, and resilient.

Where all have you been stationed?

Our first Duty Station was Fort Hood, Texas. Our second was Fort Benning, Georgia; and our third and present Duty Station is Fort Polk, Louisiana. We really loved Georgia, and now, Louisiana. We welcomed Arabella at Benning and Little Curt at Polk; so many fond and happy memories have been made.

What advice would you give a young military bride?

Don’t be shy like I was/am. Get out and meet new people. Attend FRG (Family Readiness Group) meetings, join a group/club, and get involved. Being a Military spouse can be so lonely at times. It really is beneficial to have a great, small group of friends to surround yourself with during those times. Use every hardship and situation you may face as an opportunity for growth. Always conduct yourself in a lady-like manner; our behavior is a direct reflection upon our Soldier. Also, be supportive and an encourager to your spouse. They don’t have the easiest of jobs and they really need us in their corner cheering them on!

What is something most people do not realize about military life that you wish they understood?

That it’s worth it! Even with the hardships, the unpredictability, the deployments, and the thief of time. I couldn’t imagine our life any different. I couldn’t imagine Curt being anything else but a Soldier. He loves what he does, and I love him even more for that. The people, new places, new adventures, it has been so amazing. Do I dream of an 8-5 job for Curt? My children graduating with the same kids they grew up with? Planting roots? Of course I do, but we wouldn’t be who we are without what we’ve been through.