This past weekend, another historic event took place in America. Sadly, this event seemed to have slipped under the radar by most newspapers.

On Friday, in a standing-room-only ceremony, the United States military promoted a woman to the rank of 4 Star General. For the very first time. Ever.

General Ann Dunwoody joins the ranks of other 4 Star Generals such as Gen. Colin Powel, Gen. David Petraeus and Gen. George S. Patton by becomming Commanding General, U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC).

Dunwoody’s standing-room-only ceremony in the Pentagon auditorium drew the military’s highest ranked officers. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Gen. George Casey Jr., the Army chief of staff, presided, and three-star generals had to stand in the back because all the seats were taken.

After Dunwoody’s husband, Ret. Air Force Col. Craig Brotchie, and Casey pinned four stars on each shoulder of her uniform, women soldiers cheered, some as they wiped tears of joy.

Source: McClatchy News Service, c/o The Press Democrat

Congratulations, General Ann Dunwoody and thank you for your years of dedication and sacrifice for our country!