Kerry Irvin is the Chief Executive Officer of Operation Healing Forces, where she leads with compassion, vision, and an unwavering dedication to America’s Special Operations Forces community. A nationally recognized leader, speaker, and advocate for military and veteran causes, Kerry brings decades of nonprofit and organizational leadership experience, blending strategic insight, fundraising excellence, and a deeply personal commitment to those who serve.
Under her leadership, Operation Healing Forces continues to expand its reach and impact, supporting the recovery, resilience, and lasting stability of wounded, ill, injured, and fallen Special Operations service members, their families, and caregivers. Kerry has driven significant organizational restructuring and growth, secured transformative philanthropic partnerships, and advanced Operation Healing Forces’ mission through innovative programs and sustainable development strategies that deliver enduring support to the SOF community.
As a certified Master Resilience Trainer, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Facilitator, and Transition Assistance Program Facilitator, Kerry draws on this expertise to shape and strengthen Operation Healing Forces’ programming. Her background in evidence-based training informs initiatives that foster emotional resilience, post traumatic growth, and holistic well-being for Special Operations Forces service members, veterans, families, and caregivers. By integrating best practices from her collaborations with the Departments of Defense, Labor, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs, Kerry ensures Operation Healing Forces’ programs are responsive to the community’s unique challenges and grounded in proven strategies that help participants build resilience, support recovery, embrace reintegration, and lead fulfilling lives.
Kerry’s leadership and advocacy have earned her distinguished honors, including the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Secretary of the Army’s Superior Public Service Medal, Tampa Bay BusinessWoman of the Year, and Tampa Bay Community Hero. She has also been named Military Spouse of the Year three times. A respected columnist and military advocate, she authored The Home Front column for Military Times, giving voice to military families and illuminating both their triumphs and challenges.
As the daughter, spouse, and mother of United States Army Soldiers, Kerry’s work is both professional and deeply personal. She unites purpose and service to ensure that those who defend our nation at the Tip of the Spear, and the families who stand beside them, have the strength, stability, and support they need to thrive.
