Tammy Duckworth: War Hero, Senator, and Advocate for Veterans.
Tammy Duckworth, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Illinois since 2017, is an Iraq War veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and trailblazer as the first Thai-American woman in Congress and the first Senator to give birth while in office. Her career spans military service, public advocacy, and legislation focused on veterans, families, and environmental justice, making her a prominent voice in American politics as of 2025.
Early Life and Education.
Born Ladda Tammy Duckworth on March 12, 1968, in Bangkok, Thailand, to a Thai-Chinese mother and American father (a Vietnam War veteran), Duckworth grew up amid frequent moves due to her father’s work with the UN and international companies. Settling in Hawaii during high school, she earned a bachelor’s in political science from the University of Hawaii in 1989, a master’s in international affairs from George Washington University in 1992, and a PhD in human services from Capella University in 2015. These experiences shaped her global perspective and commitment to public service.
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Military Service and Heroism.
Joining the Illinois Army National Guard in 1996 as a helicopter pilot, Duckworth deployed to Iraq in 2004. On November 12, 2004, her Black Hawk was hit by an RPG, resulting in the loss of both legs and partial use of her right arm. Awarded the Purple Heart and promoted to lieutenant colonel, she retired in 2014. Her service fueled her advocacy for veterans, including roles as director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (2006–2009) and Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (2009–2011).
Political Rise and Key Achievements.
Duckworth entered politics with an unsuccessful 2006 House run but won Illinois’s 8th District in 2012, serving until 2017. Elected to the Senate in 2016, she defeated incumbent Mark Kirk and was reelected in 2022. Key legislative wins include the Support for Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act and efforts on maternal health, like the Moms Matter Act. In 2025, she continues pushing for reproductive rights, climate action, and disability accessibility.
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Your support helps sustain our three core-programs which have reached and impacted 8.2M+ viewers this year alone!
Personal Life and Milestones.
Married to Bryan Bowlsbey since 1993, Duckworth made history in 2018 by giving birth to her second daughter, Maile, becoming the first Senator to do so while in office. She has been open about fertility struggles and uses a wheelchair, advocating for accessibility in the Capitol. Her memoir, Every Day Is a Gift (2021), details her journey.
Legacy and Continued Advocacy.
Duckworth’s story inspires through her resilience and service, with honors like the Congressional Gold Medal nomination. In 2025, she remains active on social media and focuses on veterans’ issues, reproductive freedom, and economic justice, embodying inclusive leadership.
“Healing is always possible and that the lowest moments can lead to the greatest heights.”
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