First woman to command aircraft carrier for the Navy is a Milwaukee native

By: Madison Goldbeck

Posted: Dec 28, 2020 9:56 AM CDT

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --- The Navy recently announced that Capt. Amy Bauernschmidt will assume command of USS Abraham Lincoln, marking the first time a female commanding officer will lead the crew of one of the Navy's 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, according to officials.

Bauernschmidt is a Milwaukee native. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy in May 1994, which was the first graduating class in which women were allowed to serve aboard combatant ships and aircraft.

Officials say Bauernschmidt was designated as a Naval Aviator in 1996 and served with several helicopter squadrons. The Navy says she also previously commanded the "Spartans" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 70 as well as amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD-22).

"I am incredibly honored and humbled to be selected," Bauernschmidt said. "I love leading Sailors, and I take that responsibility extremely seriously."