In the bustling halls of a Fort Lauderdale magnet school, a pivotal moment quietly unfolded for a young girl named Rhone. Little did she know, a seemingly small decision by her mother—signing her up for the school’s Air Force ROTC program—would set her on a path to becoming one of the Army’s most accomplished leaders. Today, Lieutenant Colonel Rhone serves as the Battalion Commander of the 302d Signal Battalion, headquartered at Fort Detrick, Maryland, playing a critical role in ensuring the digital infrastructure that powers America’s military operations.
A Path Less Traveled
Unlike many of her military peers, LTC Rhone didn’t grow up steeped in military traditions. Her connection to the armed forces was limited to two uncles: one a senior non-commissioned officer in the Army, the other a chief petty officer in the Navy. But her journey began to take shape when, as a high school freshman, her mother recognized qualities in her—teamwork, discipline, and a desire for purpose—that aligned perfectly with ROTC.
“I was sick when it came time to register for courses,” Rhone recalls, “and my mom felt that [ROTC] was aligned with my character—wanting to be part of a team, wanting to be part of an organization with traditions, acquiring skills and experience, and using them with purpose.”
The next year, a move to a new high school offering only Army ROTC sealed her destiny. By the time she graduated from Florida A&M University and was commissioned as a Signal Officer in 2004, her future was firmly in focus.
Rising Through the Ranks
LTC Rhone’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the years, she has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. Her assignments have spanned the globe, including roles as the U.S. Army Forces Command G-6 operations officer at Fort Liberty, NC; the U.S. Forces Korea J-6 Joint Network Operations Branch Chief; and the Brigade S-6 for the 66th Military Intelligence Brigade in Germany.
Her current role as Battalion Commander of the 302d Signal Battalion places her at the forefront of critical Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) operations. Her team ensures secure, reliable communication for everyone from the President to the Warfighter, underscoring the immense responsibility she shoulders daily.
Breaking Barriers
In a field historically dominated by men, LTC Rhone has faced her share of challenges. But her approach has always been to let her work speak for itself. “As a woman in this career field, there are often assumptions—that you’re not as physically capable or technically competent,” she says. “Once we get to know each other, those assumptions are proven false. Showing that you are competent allows you to build trust among your peers, subordinates, and leadership, regardless of gender.”
Trust is a cornerstone of her leadership philosophy. “You may be the smartest person in the room, but if people in the room don’t trust you, that will hinder your leadership of the organization,” she explains.
Inspiring the Next Generation
For young women considering a future in the military, LTC Rhone offers words of encouragement. “The Army provides discipline and shows you how to hone those skills that you’re not even aware you have,” she says. “One of the greatest things you can take away from joining the Army is the individual coaching and development.”
And for those wondering if it’s possible to balance a demanding career with a personal life, she shares advice that has stayed with her throughout her journey: “I had a male supervisor who sat me down once and said, you can have a family and you can serve at the highest levels in the Army. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do both.”
A Legacy in the Making
From a modest beginning in Fort Lauderdale to leading critical operations for the U.S. Army, LTC Rhone’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and breaking barriers. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved with determination, trust, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
For this hometown girl turned trailblazer, the sky’s the limit — and she’s showing the next generation how to reach for it.
