On this day in 1978, Margaret A. Brewer became the first female General in the U.S. Marine Corps.

She was born in Michigan, attended the University of Michigan, and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps in March of 1952.

Her first assignment was in El Toro, as a communications watch officer. She also served as an Inspector-Instructor of a female Marine Reserve unit from 1953-1955. She served as a Commanding Officer in Norfolk and Camp Lejeune, as a platoon commander for female officer candidates in Quantico, and was promoted to Major in 1961 while serving at Camp Pendleton.

In 1963, she returned to Quantico as the executive officer, then later commanding officer, of the Woman Officer school.

By 1973, she was a Colonel, and was selected as the seventh Director of Women Marines. In 1977, she took over as the Deputy Director of the Division of Information, Headquarters Marine Corps.

Her service earned her the Legion of Merit.

Brigadier General Margaret A. Brewer retired on July 1, 1980.

More information on this outstanding female Marine can be found here:

Official Biography for Margaret A. Brewer

Marine Corps Legacy Museum - Margaret A. Brewer

Who's Who in Marine Corps History - Margaret A. Brewer

Brewer made Corps history when she made general - 2003 Marine Corps Times article