11 Facts About Susan Pangelinan

Susan Pangelinan is a Chamorro-American member of the United States Air Force who oversaw California's response to the 2008 wildfires.

Susan Pangelinan was awarded the STEM Role Model Award by the Department of Defense in 2009, and Business Insider called her one of the Most Impressive Women in the US Military in 2013.

Susan Pangelinan assisted with rescue operations in New York City.

Susan Pangelinan served as Air Force medical personnel before joining the California National Guard in 2002.

Susan Pangelinan served as the National Guard's Medical Operations Officer during the 2008 California wildfires.

In that position, Susan Pangelinan oversaw the statewide response team tracking injuries, making an inventory of medical supplies and supporting military responders.

Susan Pangelinan served as the California National Guard's joint staff medical advisor in 2013.

In January 2013, Susan Pangelinan testified to the Little Hoover Commission that behavioral health support for veterans could be funded "like unemployment insurance" or as part of military demobilization.

Susan Pangelinan is an outspoken advocate for the support of veterans suffering from mental illness or emotional distress.

Susan Pangelinan serves as the co-chair of the California Interagency Council on Veterans Suicide Prevention and Intervention Group and has served as an expert witness on military mental health.

Susan Pangelinan is currently stationed in California and has two children, Tony and Lauren.