August 2024

Veteran of the Month, August 2024

Sergeant First Class(SFC) BRENDA PRIDGEN

Brenda Pridgen, a native of Dallas, Texas enlisted in the United States Army in May 1978. Upon enlistment, she was assigned to Fort Jackson, SC. for basic training, after graduation, she attended Advanced Individual Training(AIT) for personnel management at Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN.

Education

During her military service, she attended Central Texas College and Columbia College obtaining an Associate Degree and undergraduate credits in Business Management. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Relations from Point University. Mrs. Pridgen continued her education by obtaining a Master of Social Work Degree from Walden University and obtained licensure as a Licensed Master Social Worker for the state of Georgia. She additionally holds training and certificates in trauma, and suicide prevention for veterans and issues that face the LGBTQIA+ Community.

Military Service

Throughout her military career, she held several positions in personnel management and more. Duty assignments consisted of serving with Headquarters Command, Fort Bliss, TX; 2d Armored Division, Fort Hood, TX; 2d Armored Division, Germany; Redstone Arsenal, AL; 22d P&A Battalion, Frankfurt Germany; 378th PSC Battalion, and Fort Benjamin Harrison as an Instructor for AIT.

Mrs. Pridgen retired after 18 years and 10 months, under honorable conditions, holding the rank of Sergeant First Class ( SFC) while assigned as an Instructor for the Noncommissioned Officers Academy, at Fort Jackson, SC.

Memberships and Other Affiliations

Brenda Pridgen currently holds memberships and affiliations with World Changers Church International, Veterans Helping Veterans, the American Psychological Association (APA), and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. She is an advocate for the Clayton County Library System, previously served as a board member, and continues to volunteer at every opportunity.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout her military career, Brenda Pridgen received awards and decorations that include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Accommodation Medal (2d Oak Leaf), Achievement Award (3d Oak Leaf), Army Good Conduct Medal (6th award), National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer’s Professional Development w/numeral 3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2d Oak Leaf), Expert Marksmanship Badge, and a multitude of certificates of achievement and service.

Currently

Brenda Pridgen has resided in Clayton County for 19 years. She currently partners with the Clayton County Resource Network and Clayton County Library System. She is seeking the assistance of Veterans Affairs to establish a county-wide coalition pertaining to veteran suicide. Mrs. Pridgen is vigorously pursuing passions and collaborations for veterans and the community as a mental health advocate, coach, and educator to reduce the stigma of mental health care, especially for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

She is married to Darryl, her wonderful husband of 42 years. Together they have three children, Camille, Katera, and Darryl Jr.              

Thank you for your service!