Wichita Falls’ own, Dawn Ferrell is the first woman to become a Brigadier General in the Texas Air National Guard.
The state’s new Deputy Adjutant General for Air was honored at a promotion ceremony at the state capitol Friday.
Her family was there to pin the stars on her uniform.
As the state’s Deputy Adjutant General for Air, Ferrell will direct Texas Military Air Forces.
It’s her job to make sure troops and missions are ready when Governor Greg Abbott gives the call.
She will also coordinate with the National Guard to make sure the state’s military gets funding, and that no other federal, state and local jurisdictions get in the way of the Texas Air National Guard’s mission.
Ferrell first enlisted in the Texas Air National Guard in 1983. She was only 17 when she decided to follow in her father’s footsteps, and now 33- years later, she’ll lead the state’s Air Forces.
“I wanted something to do with the military so I enlisted when I was very, very young,” Deputy Adjutant General for Air, Major Dawn Ferrel said. “I thought I would come in and do my six years but to be honest with you this is the most incredible job I’ve ever had. I’ve stayed with it so long because I love it and I’m not ready to retire yet because I love it.”
“Congratulations to you Dawn,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “I am particularly proud that today’s honoree does hail from Wichita Falls the place that I was born, No doubt some of the sidewalks I traversed, I traversed before.”
The governor said General Ferrell is a role model who embodies the Texas spirit that if you work hard, you will succeed.
Governor Abbott appointed Ferrell to the position in November.
Her term expires at the pleasure of the governor.
(Information from TexomasHomepage.com)
