Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kelly L. Osmon embodies the spirit of today’s Army Reserve through her unwavering dedication to service, exemplifying versatility and leadership in both her military role and community involvement. Her commitment to ensuring operational readiness while fostering partnerships and promoting mental health accessibility reflects the Army Reserve's mission of readiness, resilience, and community engagement.

Osmon began her military career in September 2000, serving as a Chemical Operations Specialist (54B). She completed the Warrant Officer Basic Course in November 2021, specializing as a CBRN Warrant Officer (740A). Her service includes deployments to Camp Buehring, Kuwait with the 272nd Chemical Company in support of Operation Spartan Shield in 2022 and Camp Arifjan, Kuwait with the 40th Infantry Division in 2023. CW2 Osmon currently serves as the G-3 Mobilization OIC for the 76th Operational Support Command in Camp Williams, Utah. As the Mobilization OIC, she oversees 11 Force Tracking Numbers (FTNs) that facilitate operations both within CONUS and OCONUS, ensuring the readiness of personnel and equipment throughout the mobilization process. A first-time division staff officer, she successfully coordinated three iterations of a partner nation exercise, collaborating with multiple organizations and division staff sections.

Outside of her military duties, Osmon resides in Herriman, Utah, with her daughter, grandchild, and two dogs. She is a certified yoga teacher and active volunteer and ambassador with Norkova, an organization dedicated to enhancing mental health accessibility in the community through various activities like yoga, retreats, and outdoor events.

Question: Can you share what motivated you to join the Army Reserve and how your journey has evolved since then?

CW2 Osmon: As a child of a military family, with my father serving in the Air Force, I developed a deep respect for the military lifestyle. After initially enlisting in Active Duty, I made the decision to leave the service to be present for my young daughter. Even after a decade away from the military, the desire to serve remained strong within me. I truly missed the sense of camaraderie that comes with being part of a unit. Once my daughter reached her teenage years, I chose to re-enlist and joined the Army Reserve. During one of my early battle assemblies as a Specialist, I had the opportunity to meet a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Warrant Officer, which solidified my aspiration to pursue that path. Acknowledging that I needed to reach the rank of E5 or E6 before I could apply, I took proactive steps to prepare myself for this goal. I enrolled in college, volunteered for various military schools, and challenged myself both physically and mentally to ensure that my future application would stand out when the time came.

Question: How has you’re training as a CBRN Warrant Officer prepared you for your current role as the G-3 Mobilization OIC?

CW2 Osmon: I stepped into my role as the 76th ORC G3 Mobilization OIC immediately following my deployment. In this capacity, I oversee the readiness and mobilization plans of the U.S. Army Reserve CBRN units under the 76th ORC. My recent experience in a deployment setting provides me with specialized insights that are essential for effectively preparing the company commanders as they prepare to lead their Soldiers into theater. Having firsthand experience in the operational environment enables me to offer valuable guidance on the training and integration processes that our units will undergo overseas, including coordination with other units and joint forces. Additionally, my position allows me to influence the capabilities requested by the Combatant Commands (COCOMs). For instance, while previous requests focused on Area Support Companies, I have advocated for a shift towards Hazard Response Companies to better meet the evolving needs of our missions. This proactive approach ensures that our units are aligned with current operational requirements and fully equipped to address the challenges they may face.

Question: How do you balance your military duties with your personal life, especially being a mother and grandmother?

CW2 Osmon: I am a strong proponent of maintaining a healthy work/life balance, as I believe it is essential for optimal performance and overall well-being. I prioritize taking intentional time for self-care to recharge, and I encourage my team to do the same. It is vital that I lead by example; if my soldiers are facing challenges in their personal lives, it will inevitably impact their work performance. I foster a culture of trust within my team, which allows me to confidently take the time I need to recharge. This may mean enjoying an extended weekend getaway, exploring nature in my jeep, or embarking on memorable trips with my daughter and grandson. Additionally, I often find rejuvenation in activities like yoga, hiking, or diving into a good book. I am fortunate to have a close relationship with my family, and we live in a community that offers numerous opportunities for family activities. We cherish our time together, whether it's attending various sporting events, paddleboarding, discovering family-friendly hiking trails, visiting National Parks, or even enjoying a ballet performance during the holiday season. These experiences not only strengthen our bonds but also contribute to a fulfilling and balanced life.

Question: Can you discuss your volunteer work with Norkova and the impact it has had on mental health accessibility in your community?

CW2 Osmon: Upon moving to Utah after a 16-month overseas deployment, I found myself in a new environment and role, seeking ways to connect with the community. In my search, I joined several hiking groups and came across an event on Facebook titled "Sound Bath and Stargazing at the Salt Flats." Although I wasn't familiar with the concept, I was eager to try new experiences, so I decided to attend. To my surprise, I discovered a supportive community focused on mental health advocacy, dedicated to fostering connections among individuals and promoting wellness. They offer free and low-cost events designed to help people appreciate the small joys in life, slow down, and engage with one another. In today's digital age, many people experience isolation and struggle to reach out for support, often communicating primarily through screens. However, participating in these in-person gatherings provided a safe space where I learned that I was not alone in my experiences. Since becoming involved, I have participated in various activities, including women's camping and yoga retreats, cold plunges, breath work sessions, and hikes. Witnessing the community's growth, particularly with the establishment of Norkova's physical community center, inspired me to give back. I joined their ambassador program, where I commit to supporting at least two events per month. My role involves welcoming attendees, helping them feel comfortable, and assisting with event logistics, whether it’s setting up or cleaning up. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to contribute to a cause I deeply believe in while building meaningful connections within the community.

Question: What advice would you give to Soldiers in the Army Reserve looking to enhance their leadership and community involvement?

CW2 Osmon: It is never too early to begin developing your leadership skills and engaging with your community. My advice is to identify areas that resonate with your passions and seek out opportunities to learn and experience new things. Focus on activities that contribute to your personal growth and enhance your ability to connect with others. When you cultivate genuine enthusiasm and passion for what you do, it will naturally shine through and positively influence those around you. Embrace the journey of self-improvement, and you'll inspire others along the way!