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Celebrating our Veterans Today: Service, Sacrifice, and Leadership: Maj. Gen. Barbara J. Faulkenberry’s Inspiring Journey to a 2-Star General
November marks a special time to honor and thank those who have served. This Veterans Month, we're dedicating our newsletter to spotlight the incredible stories of veterans, their sacrifices, and their enduring impact on their communities.
Maj. Gen. Barbara J. Faulkenberry retired as a 2-star general in the U.S. Air Force. Her last role in the military was a worldwide mission providing rapid global mobility for America's armed forces through airlift, aerial refueling, aeromedical evacuation, and en route/contingency logistics support. The command included 37,000 active-duty airmen and civilians and 1,100 aircraft.
What is your personal/professional story?
I was just a middle-class child who grew up with encouraging parents, inspiring teachers, and a determination to do unusual and challenging things. I blindly launched into a military career when Congress opened the Service Academies to women, just as I was considering college. What I found in the military was a challenging environment, values that aligned with my own (integrity, service, excellence), and incredible adventures. While I never expected to make it a career, I did just that, retiring as a 2-star general 32 years after graduating from the Academy.
What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
I learned the value of hard work by mowing 32 lawns a week in high school while living in Florida. The grass always grew, so I had to show up every day to manage my lawns. I also took a bold step by attending a military academy, despite not knowing where it would lead. I volunteered for a very selective assignment, realizing that I probably wouldn't get it (but I did!).
I led an entire installation (a small city) while dealing with a very difficult boss. I did the best I could, took care of my people, and tried to shield them from his "leadership."
I handled multiple deployments and made many sacrifices. I persevered and enjoyed most of it.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
My passion for service stems from my upbringing, as well as the inspiration I drew from my colleagues and the high level of responsibility entrusted to me. It's a deep commitment to the greater good, rather than personal gain.
How can GlobalMindED help or contribute to you reaching your goals?
I'm inspired by GlobalMindED's mission and the people I've met through my recent involvement. Mentoring is very important. Seeing young people take that sometimes uncomfortable step to ask for a connection is energizing. Taking uncomfortable steps and reaching high is what got me to where I am today. I'm excited to pass on encouragement and inspiration!
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