Quiz: What Do You Know About Tammy Duckworth?

Tammy Duckworth sustained her injuries during the Iraq War when a rocket-propelled grenade struck the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter she was co-piloting on November 12, 2004. The explosion resulted in the loss of both her legs and severe damage to her right arm, marking her as the first female double amputee from the war and showcasing her courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Tammy Duckworth graduated from McKinley High School in 1985, where she was an active participant in track and field. Her time at McKinley High School laid the groundwork for her future accomplishments, instilling in her a strong sense of discipline and commitment to excellence.

Tammy Duckworth pursued her higher education at the University of Hawaii, earning a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1989. Her education at this institution played a crucial role in shaping her academic and personal development, preparing her for a career dedicated to public service and leadership.

Tammy Duckworth was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Illinois's 8th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 2013 to 2017. Her affiliation with the Democratic Party underscores her commitment to progressive values, inclusivity, and social justice.

Tammy Duckworth and her husband, Bryan Bowlsbey, have two daughters. Their first daughter, Abigail O'kalani Bowlsbey, was born in 2014. Their second daughter, Maile Pearl Bowlsbey, was born in 2018. The birth of Maile was particularly significant as it made Duckworth the first U.S. senator to give birth while serving in office, highlighting a historic moment in the U.S. Senate​.

Duckworth retired from the Army in the year 2014. After her recovery from the injuries she sustained in Iraq, she returned to active duty and continued to serve in various positions before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 2014. Her military service was recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Purple Heart and the Air Medal.

Franklin Duckworth, her father, passed away in the year 2005. Her father’s influence as a veteran of both the Army and the Marine Corps played a significant role in Tammy Duckworth’s decision to serve in the Army National Guard. She has often spoken about her father’s dedication to serving his country as an inspiration for her own career path. 

Tammy Duckworth completed her PhD in Human Services from Capella University School of Public Service Leadership in March 2015. This significant academic achievement demonstrated her dedication to understanding and addressing complex societal issues, further enhancing her capabilities as a public servant.

Tammy Duckworth was born on March 12, 1968, in Bangkok, Thailand. This date marks the beginning of her remarkable journey, characterized by resilience, service, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

In 2018, Duckworth became the first U.S. Senator to give birth while in office. This is a significant milestone as it breaks barriers and challenges traditional gender roles in politics. It signifies progress towards gender equality and the recognition of the importance of family and work-life balance for women in positions of power.