In a historic moment that is both a win for patriotism and pageantry, US Air Force Officer Madison Marsh became the first active-duty servicemember to win the prestigious Miss America title. Many Americans couldn’t be more proud of her.
Madison Marsh made a remarkable achievement as history’s first Miss America US Air Force military active duty servicemember. She was crowned on Sunday night and received support from many Americans on social media.
Hailing from Colorado, Marsh marked her victorious moment in a red dress with the iconic Miss America sash and crown on her. Several outlets that reported on her memorable win received sentiments from Instagram users in the comments section of their posts.
“Crown history,” one person pointed out. Meanwhile, others wrote about Marsh’s well-deserved win. “So proud to call her our Miss America,” a social media user wrote. “There hasn’t been [a] more deserving person for this title,” another agreed. “A literal icon for all of us,” a third highlighted.
Other fans noted Marsh’s beautiful qualities in the comments. “She’s gorgeous smart and brave,” one commented. “A Real Miss America,” wrote another.
Marsh’s journey to becoming Miss America is as extraordinary as the title she now holds. As a member of the US Air Force, she has not only dedicated herself to serving her country but has also demonstrated a commitment to education and empowerment.
“When I put on my uniform, I serve, and I represent our country,” she said. “When I put on the crown and sash, I’m serving, representing my community.”
During her time in the Air Force Academy, Marsh was chosen as a pilot and earned the rank of Second Lieutenant. She also earned a physics degree and was accepted into the Harvard Kennedy School.
Her other impressive accomplishments include being an eight-time USAFA Dean’s List, three-time USAFA Superintendent’s List, two-time National Astronaut Scholar, National Truman Scholar, NASA Intern, and National Rhodes Finalist, among others.
Besides her achievements in her career and the academe, she is also a philanthropist with a non-profit organization, Whitney Marsh Foundation, named after her late mother, who passed away from pancreatic cancer.
“I’m trying to take that background of my cancer research and applying that to the policy degree — trying to translate it to make sure that we’re enacting policy that’s equitable for all patients,” she said.
As the news of Marsh’s historic win reverberates across the nation, it serves as a reminder to the younger generation that women can wear a crown and an honorable uniform with equal grace and pride.
Years ago, Vanessa Williams, now a singer and mother of four, also made history as the first African-American to win the prestigious title.
