June, 2020–Legislator Leslie Kennedy honored Army Captain Michelle C. Mudge, during the Suffolk County “Women Veterans Appreciation Day” celebration. Each of the 18 Legislators selected one woman veteran from their Legislative district to recognize the sacrifices of women veterans who have valiantly served our nation since the American Revolution. June 12th was chosen to commemorate the day (in 1948) when President Harry S. Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, formally allowing women to serve as regular members of the military.
Captain Mudge was raised by William and Patricia Mudge in Commack, NY. Captain Mudge made the resolute decision to protect her country by joining the military after her father served as a first responder at Ground Zero. She involved herself in various military, political and athletic undertakings throughout high school in order to aid in her future career, and began flight training at the age of 15. After receiving a 4-year Army ROTC scholarship, she graduated Cum Laude from the University of North Dakota with a B.S. in Commercial Aviation (Helicopter) and commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and aviation officer.
Army Aviator Captain Mudge has served in various tactical operations throughout the world, including the Mid-East and South America, she served as the Battalion S4 OIC and the only female EO-5C Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance pilot in the U.S. Army. She has continued her military aviator and intelligence education and is currently serving as a Battalion operations officer in the 206th Military Intelligence Battalion at Fort Hood, TX.
It was my honor to recognize Captain Michelle C. Mudge as the 12th District Honoree for Women’s Veterans Appreciation Day.
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