“What was once a band of brothers has truly become a band of brothers and sisters.” – Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody.
Those words, spoken by General Ann E. Dunwoody at her retirement ceremony, ring especially true as the first woman in U.S. history to achieve the rank of four-star general. She has helped redefine what is possible for women in military leadership.
It’s one of many reasons Women in Defense Michigan, in partnership with Baker Engineering LLC., is spotlighting her story in our series, A Salute to Unsung Heroes of Defense. Each month, we highlight women whose contributions have helped shape our national defense landscape and inspired the next generation of leaders.
Breaking Barriers
General Dunwoody joined the Army in 1975, at a time when women faced significant limitations in military service. Throughout her 38-year career, she helped open doors for future generations of women in defense.
In 1992, she became the first woman to command a battalion in the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division. By 2000, she achieved another historic first as Fort Bragg’s first female general officer. In 2005, she became the first female soldier to achieve a three-star rank since Lt. Gen. Claudia Kennedy. In 2008, she made history as the first woman in U.S. military history to achieve a four-star general rank.
Transforming Military Operations Worldwide
As commander of the Army Materiel Command (AMC), General Dunwoody oversaw one of the Army’s largest and most complex operations. She managed global logistics for more than 69,000 employees across all 50 states and 145 countries, ensuring warfighters had the needed resources.
From ensuring ammunition reached front-line troops to modernizing equipment systems, Dunwoody managed a global network of installations, personnel, and contractors while overseeing billions in military assets. Her leadership impacted every aspect of military operations and enhanced the Army’s ability to execute missions worldwide.
General Dunwoody retired in 2012, profoundly influencing how soldiers are trained, engage in combat, and sustain operations.
Women like General Dunwoody exemplify our work at Women in Defense Michigan. We are dedicated to empowering and advancing women in all aspects of national security while honoring those who paved the way. Our organization provides skill development, relationship building, and career advancement for women across the defense sector.
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