On Monday, Nov. 25, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Avanel O. Macedon made Virgin Islands National Guard (VING) history as the first female to ever hold the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4.
Soldiers, airmen, retirees, families and friends gathered in a promotion ceremony held at the Joint Forces Headquarters drill hall floor. The venue was decorated with memories, words of inspiration and beautiful figurines that symbolized women empowerment.
“Today, I stand before you owning my place in VING’s history,” said Macedon. “I thank my mom for all of the sacrifices she has had made, which has allowed me to stand before you as VING’s first female CW4 Warrant Officer.”
Macedon displayed gratitude for the support, mentorship, encouragement and motivation provided to her throughout her military career. “Lead. Follow. Get Out,” said Macedon. “All of us must be leaders, and as leaders, we help to mold and mentor other leaders.”
Macedon enlisted in the Virgin Islands National Guard on July 10, 1995. She served in various units such as the Signal Support Activity and the 651st Ground Support Maintenance Company. Aspiring to advance in her military career, she attended Warrant Officer Candidate School in Fort Rucker, Alabama, where she was soon commissioned as Warrant Officer 1, Nov. 4, 2004.
