MITCHELL – The South Dakota Army National Guard’s 147th Army Band has promoted its first woman to the first sergeant position in the unit’s 133-year history during a ceremony May 2.
First Sgt. Kristen Soukup, of Brookings, was promoted to the unit’s senior noncommissioned officer position, where she is now responsible for advising the unit commander on all aspects of the unit’s enlisted soldiers.
Soukup started her National Guard career in 1996, playing the trumpet in the 147th. Recently, she has been one of the main singers for the popular musical performance team Sergeant Rock.
It was a long road, but reaching first sergeant was always in the back of Soukup’s mind.
“It’s truly an honor to have been chosen as the next first sergeant of the band,” Soukup said. “In my 22 years as a member of the 147th, I’ve had the pleasure of serving with some of the most wonderful soldiers and people. These people are a big part of the reason I’m standing in this position today.”
“She is in the position because she is the right person for the position,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Terry Beckler, 147th commander. “With her no-nonsense approach, she will hold the position well.”
Former 147th first sergeant, Darold Rounds, was in attendance for the pinning ceremony.
“There are a lot of leaders, but not only was she a musician and leader, she is a real people person,” Rounds said about the promotion. “She will do all three things: helping you as a person, a civilian and as a soldier. Congratulations, Kristen!”
Soukup is married to Jeff Soukup, also a member of the 147th Army Band, and has three children. In her civilian life, she works as a liability claims adjuster at Great West Casualty Company.
The 147th Army Band provides music throughout the full spectrum of military operations and instills in service members the will to fight and win, fosters support of our citizens and promotes our national interests at home and abroad with performances for open audiences.
Upcoming performances include a couple public performances in Rapid City during June and Downtown at Sundown in Brookings in July.
Courtesy photo
