When the Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial opened in Washington, D.C., a small but proud contingent from Bismarck, North Dakota, was on hand to witness the dedication. Among them was Dr. Kathy Perkerewicz, a physician who served in the Gulf War and now carries a trove of photographs documenting the historic trip.
From the United Arab Emirates to the Nation’s Capital
Dr. Perkerewicz and her longtime friend, Marci Ketterling, both served with the 311th Evacuation Hospital during Desert Storm, stationed in the United Arab Emirates. “We were activated for 89 days,” Perkerewicz recalled, emphasizing the intensity of the deployment.
Her military journey began at age 17 when she enlisted in the Army Reserves, motivated both by a desire to fund her college education and by a deep family tradition of service. “My dad was in Korea,” she said, “my mom had several brothers in the military, and four of them were in WWII.” Over a 21‑year Reserve career, the Gulf War proved to be the most formative experience.
Leadership, Responsibility, and Lasting Pride
“It helped form me into the person I am, as far as leadership, responsibility, taking care of others,” Dr. Perkerewicz explained. The dedication ceremony offered a poignant moment of reflection. “It was emotional. It brought back memories of leaving and not knowing if you were going to be safe, if you were going to return home,” she said.
Beyond the solemn remembrance, the event provided a chance to reconnect with fellow veterans, some of whom she had not seen since their deployment. “We found a soldier who was activated with us from St. Louis, and that was just really cool,” she added.
Celebrating Women’s Contributions
During their Washington visit, Dr. Perkerewicz and her companions also toured the Military Women’s Memorial. She noted that the site underscored a truth she has long held: women have served alongside men since the earliest days of the armed forces, often beginning as caretakers before expanding into every role the military offers.
The photographs she captured on the trip will serve as a lasting record of both personal and national history, preserving moments that blend personal pride with collective remembrance.
Why This Matters to Bismarck
For the Bismarck community, Dr. Perkerewicz’s story highlights the enduring ties between local families and the nation’s military heritage. Her experience underscores the values of service, sacrifice, and leadership that resonate deeply with families across the state. As a physician, she continues to serve her community in a different capacity, embodying the same dedication she displayed on the battlefield.
Her journey from a small North Dakota town to the nation’s capital serves as a reminder that the contributions of local veterans shape the broader tapestry of American history. The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial stands as a permanent tribute to those who answered the call, and Bismarck’s own veterans can take pride in seeing their service honored on a national stage.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
