A Thai-American colonel, pilot, and politician who served in the Iraq War and later became a U.S. Senator, known for her advocacy on veterans' rights and disability issues.
Tammy Duckworth is a name synonymous with courage, resilience, and dedication to public service. As a retired Army National Guard lieutenant colonel and a junior United States senator from Illinois, Duckworth has made history as the first female double amputee from the Iraq War, the first woman with a disability elected to Congress, and the first senator to give birth while in office.
Born on March 12, 1968, in Bangkok, Thailand, to Franklin Duckworth, an American citizen, Tammy Duckworth spent her early years in Honolulu, Hawaii. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and later pursued a Master's degree in International Affairs from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
In 2004, while serving as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot in Iraq, Duckworth's Black Hawk helicopter was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade fired by Iraqi insurgents. The devastating attack resulted in the loss of both legs and partial mobility in her right arm. Despite her severe injuries, Duckworth was awarded a medical waiver, allowing her to continue serving in the Illinois Army National Guard for another ten years until her retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 2014.
Duckworth's political journey began with an unsuccessful bid for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006. However, she went on to serve as the director of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs from 2006 to 2009 and as assistant secretary for public and intergovernmental affairs at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs from 2009 to 2011. In 2012, she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where she served two terms. Her landmark election to the U.S. Senate in 2016 made her the first Thai American woman elected to Congress, the first person born in Thailand elected to Congress, and the second Asian American woman to serve in the Senate.
Tammy Duckworth has consistently advocated for policies that support veterans, small businesses, and working-class families. She has also been a vocal advocate for environmental protection, women's rights, and access to healthcare. Her dedication to public service is rooted in her strong belief in the importance of serving others and making a positive impact on her community.
"I'm not a hero. I'm just a veteran who got hurt doing my job."
Tammy Duckworth's remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and courage. Her trailblazing career has paved the way for women, people with disabilities, and Asian Americans to pursue careers in public service and the military. As a senator, she continues to inspire and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society, leaving an indelible mark on American politics and history.
In 1993, Duckworth married Bryan Bowlsbey, an Army Major. The couple has two daughters, Abigail and Maile.
83 Years Old
The 46th President of the United States, currently serving as the leader of the country, known for his efforts in addressing climate change and promoting unity.
64 Years Old
The first African American to hold the office, he served two terms as President of the United States, earning a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation. He's known for his charismatic leadership and commitment to progressive values.
78 Years Old
A highly influential American politician and diplomat who served as Secretary of State and First Lady, known for her advocacy on women's rights and international diplomacy.
86 Years Old
The 52nd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives is a powerful politician who has played a crucial role in shaping the country's legislative agenda. They are known for their strong leadership and advocacy on issues like healthcare and women's rights.
84 Years Old
A seasoned politician who served as the Senate Majority Leader, known for his influential role in shaping US politics and legislation.
89 Years Old
A decorated war hero and senator, known for his bravery as a POW and his influential role in shaping US politics.
70 Years Old
A prominent Republican senator from South Carolina, known for his conservative views and influential role in shaping US foreign policy and judicial nominations.
73 Years Old
A moderate Republican senator from Maine, known for her centrist views and crucial swing votes on key legislation, particularly the Affordable Care Act.
