In 2017, Kimberly Napoleon, a decorated U.S. Army and Gulf War veteran, made history as the first Black female Commander of the Wallace C. Schultz/Dwight A. McKinney Jr. Post 9931 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Bridgeport.
In yet another monumental achievement over the weekend, Napoleon was installed as the VFW Department of Michigan’s new State Commander. This change of command not only marks a new chapter for the organization but also a historic milestone in its 104-year legacy, as Napoleon becomes the first female to hold this position.
The official ceremonies took place at the VFW’s annual state convention in Kalamazoo, where members of the VFW, community leaders, and guests gathered to witness the historical transition. The event was filled with pride and reverence, celebrating Napoleon’s exemplary service and dedication to veterans’ causes.
Napoleon served in the United States Army from 1987 until her medical retirement in 1996, following her involvement in Operation Just Cause, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Desert Storm, collectively known as the First Gulf War. During this time, she was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where she provided logistical support operations with the 1st Corps Support Command (COSCOM).
Throughout her service, she has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Bronze Star with Valor—the fourth-highest medal for heroism—for her actions in a combat zone in Southwest Asia.
Napoleon’s historic appointment is a significant step forward in promoting diversity and inclusion within the VFW. As the first female State Commander, she represents a new era of leadership that reflects the evolving demographics of the veteran community. Her groundbreaking achievement serves as an inspiration to women veterans and highlights the importance of gender equality in leadership roles.
