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Vice Adm. Rondeau honored (5/14)

The following information was released by the Department of Defense about Vice Adm. Ann E. Rondeau, a strong advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine. USTRANSCOM deputy named New York USO Military Woman of the Year Vice Adm. Ann E. Rondeau, deputy commander, United States Transportation Command, and the senior ranking female officer in the U.S. Navy, was named "Military Woman of the Year," May 5, in New York by the United Service Organizations (USO) of Metropolitan New York. Rondeau joined Deirdre Imus and Diane L. Taylor as the three USO of Metropolitan New York "Women of the Year" during the 42nd Annual luncheon which recognized women and their accomplishments in both their personal and professional lives. During her short address to the New York residents, business leaders, military service members and celebrities, including the author Mary Higgins Clark and radio talk show host Don Imus, Rondeau shared her experience traveling throughout the nations' airports and visiting the USO facilities constantly in use by service members heading to or from a deployment. "It is because of you and the USO that home is where our citizens are and where there is a smile from those that appreciate the men and women who are serving our nation," said Rondeau. Retired Vice Adm. Patricia A. Tracey, highlighted Rondeau's ability to improve operational readiness and sustain operations for the long term. She described Rondeau as demonstrating wit, wisdom and courage to make a difference, while stressing that she is a lifelong learner and thoughtful leader. "We are so pleased to have her (Rondeau) here today," said Brian C. Whiting, president, USO of Metropolitan New York. "She has always made it clear that it is about taking care of those who serve and taking care of those people in the military that work for her. She represents everything the USO stands for." The USO of Metropolitan New York seeks to recognize women who have demonstrated their commitment to supporting service members and their families. Each of the women honored were extremely successful in their professional paths as well as dedicated to serving others through community or military service. The USO has approximately 300 paid employees worldwide and 33,000 volunteers. Providing a home away from home, the USO serves to support service members and their families by providing for increased morale and welfare. ###