Congratulations to Brigadier General Paula Lodi and Major General Maria Lodi Barrett for making U.S. Army history as the first pair of sisters to attain the rank of general.

Both women joined the military to pay for college and that is where they found their calling. They’ve each spent the last few decades actively seeking leadership opportunities as their careers progressed. Brig. Gen. Lodi is currently deputy chief of staff for operations in the Army’s Surgeon General’s office. Maj. Gen. Barrett commands the Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM).

“The fact that we’re sisters, not brothers, I think it’s a huge illustration of how far we’ve come as a service,” said Lodi.

According to an article in the Army Times, “As of February 2018, there were 63 female admirals and generals in all five branches of the military including the Coast Guard…that’s more than double the number there were in the start of fiscal year 2000.”

This is a proud moment for the United States Army and our country. Thank you both for your service!

Read more: These are the first sisters to attain the rank of general, Army says

Wishing you a wonderful day with friends and family!