[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 46 (Wednesday, March 23, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN RECOGNITION OF BRIGADIER GENERAL WILMA VAUGHT

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                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 23, 2016

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brigadier 
General Wilma L. Vaught of Pontiac, Michigan. A decorated veteran and 
pioneer for women, General Vaught served in the United States Air Force 
for 28 years and played an instrumental role in breaking down barriers 
for women in the military.
  General Vaught began her career in 1957 with her commission as a 
second lieutenant at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. Throughout her 
distinguished career, General Vaught served throughout the United 
States and abroad in a variety of roles. From 1968 to 1969, she served 
as a management analyst for Deputy Chief of Staff, Comptroller, 
Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, in Saigon. She continued to 
excel, and in 1980, was promoted to Brigadier General. She was one of 
only seven female generals in the entire United States armed forces 
when she retired in 1985.
  During her time in the United States Air Force, General Vaught 
received a number of commendations for her service. Her military 
decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Air Force 
Distinguished Service Medal, and Legion of Merit. In addition to being 
the first woman promoted to Brigadier General in the comptroller field, 
General Vaught was the first woman to deploy with an Air Force bomber 
wing, further breaking down barriers for women serving our country.
  After her military service, General Vaught fought for recognition of 
women's contributions to our nation's armed forces. As the leader of 
the Women in Military Service to America Memorial Foundation, she 
played a significant role in the creation of this wonderful tribute to 
women at Arlington National Cemetery. This is the only major memorial 
that honors America's servicewomen and serves as a testament to their 
courage and bravery.
  General Vaught is a true patriot and trail-blazer for women in the 
military. Her distinguished service and groundbreaking accomplishments 
are an inspiration to all of us. It is for this reason, Mr. Speaker, 
that I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring Brigadier General 
Wilma L. Vaught for her contributions to our country. I thank her for 
her leadership and exemplary service to our country.

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