Unsung Women's History Month Hero: The Inspiring Story of Pearl K. Williams, First Black Female Police Officer in Anniston & 9/11 Advocate After Oldest Son Killed in Pentagon Attack

By Roy L. Williams of Birmingham, Ala., Silver Fox Williams Twin

March is not just a month; it's a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and remarkable achievements of women who are the backbone of many families. As we honor Women's History Month, we shine a light on a truly inspiring figure—my mother, Pearl K. Williams. On March 11, she will turn 83, and her life story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in carrying meaningful legacies forward.

Pearl Williams is often remembered for her efforts to honor her oldest child, Army Major Dwayne Williams, who lost his life in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, at the Pentagon. Yet, her influence reaches far beyond this heartbreaking chapter. Throughout her journey, she has broken barriers and inspired countless individuals through her dedicated service and tireless advocacy.

Army Major Dwayne Williams of Jacksonville, Ala., is among 184 victims of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Pentagon honored at the Pentagon Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Each of these benches in the Pentagon Memorial bear the name of victims such as my brother, Army Major Dwayne Williams

Breaking Barriers as a Pioneer

Before becoming a force for change in her community, Pearl was already making history in ways that many could only dream of. In the early 1970s, while raising four boys under 10 years old, she enrolled at Jacksonville State University (JSU). Her determination to better her family's future led her to become the first in the Kimble family, out of six girls from Anniston, Alabama, to graduate from college. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and later received her Master's Degree at JSU.

Pearl Williams got her college degree at Jax State while her 4 boys were aged 10 and under. Pictured above are the Williams brothers - Roy, Dwayne, Troy & Kim outside their home in the Eastwood community of Jacksonville.

In the mid-1970s, her journey took another monumental leap when she became the first Black female police officer in Anniston, Alabama. This milestone not only showcased her tenacity but also established a precedent in a field where few women, especially women of color, had previously made their mark.

Pearl didn’t stop there. In 1977, she became the first Black Campus police officer at Jacksonville State University. When my identical twin brother Troy and I attended JSU from 1983 to 1988, our mother was affectionately known as Officer Pearl. Her presence on campus was a beacon of safety and support for students, and her reputation as a diligent officer was well-respected. Later in her career, our mom Pearl Williams served as off-campus employment coordinator, helping countless students at JSU find jobs.

A glimpse of Jacksonville State University, where Officer Pearl served.

Turning Pain into Purpose

The loss of my brother Dwayne, who was one of nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, struck Pearl with unimaginable sorrow. However, instead of succumbing to despair, she transformed her grief into purpose. Mom emerged as a tireless 9/11advocate and Gold Star Mother committed to ensuring that her son's sacrifice would never be forgotten.

Dwayne had an exemplary military career, serving as a decorated Army Major for 18 years. He was a paratrooper and ranger at Fort Benning, Georgia, and led troops with distinction in the Persian Gulf War. Just two months before his untimely death, he was assigned to the Pentagon as a Joint Officer Distribution Manager, where he worked to protect the freedoms we hold dear.

Following 9/11, Pearl felt a profound urge to act—not only for her healing but also for other victims' families. She led fundraising efforts to erect a 9/11 memorial dedicated to Dwayne in Jacksonville, Alabama in 2002. Additionally, she established the Army Major Dwayne Williams Memorial Scholarship at JSU, ensuring future generations of students would benefit from educational opportunities in his name. This scholarship has since awarded over $10,000 to deserving students pursuing careers in fields like criminal justice and public service.

This monument in Jacksonville, Ala.'s Historic Cemetery honors the sacrifice of Army Major Dwayne Williams, who was killed in the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

An Inspiration for Generations

Pearl K. Williams is more than a mother and trailblazer; she is a living testament to faith, courage, and the unwavering spirit of a woman determined to make a difference. Her story resonates as an inspiration for people of all ages, encouraging aspiring women in public service to pursue their dreams despite adversity.

As we pay tribute to her accomplishments and embrace the essence of Women's History Month, let us remember that each woman has a story worth honoring. Pearl Williams' life reflects the importance of community, family, and the determination to rise above obstacles.

Pearl Williams reminds us that legacies can be built on love, sacrifice, and dedication. The stories we carry forward can inspire others, creating a ripple effect that fosters change for generations to come.

Honoring Her Impact

As we mark Women's History Month, let us recognize remarkable women like Pearl K. Williams, who redefine what it means to be a trailblazer in today’s world. Her unyielding spirit and commitment to preserving her son's legacy exemplify how one person can impact countless lives.

Let’s celebrate my mom Pearl Williams on her 83rd birthday on March 11! May her story inspire future generations to achieve greatness, break barriers, and honor those who came before them. Through her life's work, she has not only preserved the memory of her beloved son but has also paved the way for countless others to follow in her footsteps.

As we reflect on the significance of Women’s History Month, may we all find resilience, inspiration, and strength in the stories of those who have blazed trails and left lasting legacies in our hearts.

A memorial honoring the heroes of 9/11 in New York City.

Note: To honor their mom's legacy of impact, the Silver Fox Williams twins are hosting a birthday party for her at her nursing home in Anniston, on Saturday, March 8. 15 of her friends and family are attending - including former Jacksonville State University President Dr. Bill Meehan and his wife, retired funeral home owner K.L. Brown and his wife, Dwayne's former college football roommate at University of North Alabama Lonzie McCants and his wife, Michael Abrams of Jacksonville (who helped Pearl Williams coordinate the annual 9/11 tribute to Dwayne in Jacksonville), current Jacksonville City Councilwoman Sherry Laster (who represents the Eastwood community where the Williams lived), and more.  It will be Troy's first trip back to the United States since their dad Horace Williams died nearly 12 years ago. Roy and Troy discussed this surprise trip home to celebrate their mom while Roy and his wife Patrice vacationed across Europe while visiting Troy's family at their home in the Netherlands last fall. Troy has lived in Europe since he was first stationed there over 20 years ago.