Born: 1971
Biography:
Merryl Tengesdal, born in 1971, is an American retired career military officer who has made significant contributions to the field of aviation. She holds the distinction of being the first and only Black woman to fly the United States Air Force’s U-2 spy plane, which is utilized for specialized high-altitude reconnaissance missions. Tengesdal’s achievements are even more remarkable considering the limited representation of women and minorities in the U-2 program.
Tengesdal began her journey in the military with a deep-rooted passion for flying and the space program. Growing up in The Bronx, New York, she attended local schools and developed an early interest in pursuing a career as an astronaut. She pursued her dreams at the University of New Haven, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. Tengesdal was one of only three women who completed the program, which highlights her determination and resilience.
During her time at the University of New Haven, Tengesdal demonstrated her multifaceted abilities by not only excelling academically but also actively participating in extracurricular activities. She played on the basketball team and was also a part of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). These experiences shaped her into a well-rounded individual and prepared her for the challenges she would face in her military career.
Following her graduation, Tengesdal embarked on her military journey by entering the United States Navy Officer Candidate School. In 1994, she was commissioned as an officer, marking the beginning of a successful career as a Naval Aviator. Tengesdal’s initial role involved flying the SH-60B Seahawk Helicopter at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. She quickly gained valuable experience and deployed on numerous cruises to regions such as the Middle East, South America, and the Caribbean.
After completing a three-year sea tour, Tengesdal transitioned to becoming a T-34C and T-6A Instructor Pilot. Her expertise and dedication led to her becoming one of only four Navy T-6A Instructors, responsible for training Navy and Air Force students at Joint Student Undergraduate Pilot Training (JSUPT) at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. Her outstanding abilities as a flight student were evident, as her Navy flight instructor, Commander Ron Robinson, attested that she was one of his best students.
Tengesdal’s achievements in the Navy paved the way for her eventual transfer to the United States Air Force. She was determined to continue her military career and pursue her aspirations in flying the Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady. In 2004, Tengesdal made history as the first African-American woman to fly the U-2, a notable accomplishment that solidified her place in aviation history.
Throughout her career, Tengesdal continued to fly the U-2 and deployed to various locations in support of crucial operations such as OLIVE HARVEST, ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM, and HORN OF AFRICA. She served at Beale Air Force Base in Northern California and held significant positions within the 9th Reconnaissance Wing (9th RW), including Chief of Flight Safety and Director of Operations for the 9th Physiological Support Squadron. Her dedication and expertise earned her the rank of United States Air Force Colonel before her retirement.
Tengesdal’s contributions to the U-2 program and her groundbreaking achievements as the first and only Black woman to fly the U-2 have left an indelible mark on aviation history. Her determination, resilience, and groundbreaking accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring aviators, particularly women and minorities, who seek roles in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Awards:
– Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of New Haven (2010)
– Defense Meritorious Service Medal
– Meritorious Service Medal
– Air Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters)
– Joint Service Commendation Medal
– Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal
– Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters)
– National Defense Service Medal
– Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
– Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
– Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3 awards)
– Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon