Perry joined the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of second lieutenant. While serving in the Air Force, Perry played on the Bolling Air Force Team that included Al Dorow, Tommy O'Connell, and Johnny Lattner.
Perry's decision to join the US Air Force led him to become a second lieutenant. During his time in the Air Force, he was part of the Bolling Air Force Team, which featured other talented athletes like Al Dorow, Tommy O'Connell, and Johnny Lattner.