The Uniform Came Off. Her Service Didn’t.

When we talk about Women’s History Month at Nation’s Finest, we’re not just talking about the past. We’re talking about women who continue to serve, lead, and empower others every single day.

Carmen Perez from Reno, Nevada is one of those women. A U.S. Army Veteran and Nation’s Finest case manager, she embodies what selflessness looks like.

Her story is about resilience. It’s about finding your voice. And it’s about never giving up the spirit of service to others, even after hanging up the uniform.

Carmen served in the Army from 1998 to 2019, specializing in water purification, logistics, and human resources. She held multiple leadership roles such as Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, Casualty Assistance Officer, Human Resources Manager, Military Equal Opportunity Officer, Training Officer, and Platoon Sergeant. She was also deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“As a woman who served in the military, I learned the value of discipline, sacrifice, and leading with integrity,” says Carmen. “I took an oath and had the honor of defending America’s freedom, both from foreign and domestic threats. It was a responsibility only a few will ever experience.”

The military was a transformative experience for Carmen. Growing up, she described herself as timid, shy, and lacking confidence. After losing her mother at eight years old, she was forced to grow up quickly in a toxic environment that lacked stability and support. It wasn’t until she moved out and met her husband after high school that Carmen began changing the trajectory of her life.

“Enlisting in the Army became a pivotal decision that allowed me to serve a higher purpose, achieve my educational goals, build a career I am proud of, and create stability for my family,” Carmen explains. “It taught me my own strength and showed me that quiet, hardworking people are often the ones who succeed.”

After 20 years of service and multiple accomplishments, Carmen chose to retire so she could focus on motherhood and create memories with her children while they were still young. But the transition out of service was far from easy.

She struggled to find employment, adjust to a new environment, and rediscover her sense of purpose.

Like many Veterans, Carmen experienced a loss of identity after leaving the military. That shift affected her relationships, social connections, and even her mental health.

It wasn’t until 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic that Carmen found Nation’s Finest, joining as a temporary Program Support Specialist. But by November of that year, she became a permanent part of the team and never looked back.

“Following my 2019 retirement, a job meant to supplement my income blossomed into a service of mercy,” says Carmen. “And I’m committed to it for the long haul.”

Today, in her current role as a Case Manager, Carmen works alongside her battle brothers and sisters, walking with them through challenges and celebrating their victories. She feels grateful to work for an organization that allows her to humanize, validate, and support the experiences of other Veterans—many of whom have struggled with homelessness, housing insecurity, substance abuse disorders, mental health challenges, and other significant obstacles.

“The military gave me my voice,” Carmen says about the impact of her service. “That is the reason I am passionate about protecting the underdogs and becoming a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves.”

When asked what Women’s History Month means to her, Carmen says it’s about reflecting on the resilience, service, and perseverance that have shaped her journey.

“Honoring women’s history reminds us that progress is built by women who show up, serve with purpose, and create impact. Strength that is rarely recognized, but undeniably strong.”

Carmen and her story show that service does not end when the uniform comes off, but instead, it evolves. She has led soldiers. She has navigated her own transition. And now, she stands beside other Veterans as they rebuild their lives.

During Women’s History Month, we honor Carmen and all women who continue to show up every day, against all odds, to make a difference in this world. You deserve to be recognized and celebrated.