Groundbreaking Accomplishments of Lt. Gen. Nadja West
Lt. Gen. Nadja West, a trailblazer in the U.S. Army, has achieved numerous groundbreaking milestones throughout her distinguished 37-year career.
In 2013, she became the Army’s first Black female major general of the active component and Army Medicine’s first African-American female two-star general. Her remarkable journey continued in 2015 when she was sworn in as the 44th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army, becoming the first Black Army surgeon general.
“I never really thought about that part. My parents taught me to work hard and be the best I can be and things will work out. I’m just really honored. If anything at all, I hope I can be an inspiration to any one or any group that has not seen themselves in certain positions. We all want to see people who look like us doing certain things to give us inspiration. Hopefully, I can inspire someone to be able to say, ‘I can do that.’” – Lt. Gen. Nadja West
A Humble Beginning and Remarkable Journey
Abandoned as a baby, West was adopted into a military family with 11 other adopted children when she was two years old.
Despite facing adversity early in her life, she remained undeterred, embarking on a remarkable journey that would defy all odds.
In 1982, West earned a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Six years later, she obtained a Doctorate of Medicine degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine. These academic achievements laid the foundation for her distinguished military career.
Breaking Barriers and Reaching New Heights
West’s ascension through the ranks of the U.S. Army was nothing short of extraordinary. In 2016, she became the first Black female lieutenant general and the highest-ranking woman to graduate from the U.S. Military Academy.
This milestone shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the Armed Forces.
Throughout her trailblazing career, West has remained humble and focused on her mission.
Her words, “Hopefully, I can inspire someone to be able to say, ‘I can do that,’” reflect her commitment to serving as a role model and inspiring others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
Decorated Service and Accolades
West’s unwavering dedication and exceptional service have earned her numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and many others.
She is also a member of prestigious organizations such as the Order of Military Medical Merit and the Order of Saint Christopher.
