Tammy Duckworth

L. Tammy Duckworth is the current Director of the Illinois Department of Veteran's Affairs. In 2006, Duckworth ran for Congress in the 6th District of Illinois and narrowly lost to Peter Roskam.TammyDuckworth.com: Tammy's Bio

A veteran of the Iraq War, Duckworth lost both her legs after her helicopter was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade in 2004. Duckworth entered the ROTC in 1990 and the Army Reserve in 1992. She decided to become a helicopter pilot because it was the only combat position open to women.TammyDuckworth.com: Tammy's Bio Her husband, Bryan W. Bowlsbey, was sent to Iraq in 2007.NPR: Tammy Duckworth's Husband Faces New Tour (February 16, 2007)

In 2005, Duckworth announced her candidacy for the open seat vacated by former Illinois Congressman Henry Hyde. Although Duckworth defeated her Democratic rival in the primary, she narrowly lost in the general election. After her defeat, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich appointed her Director of the Illinois Department of Veteran's Affairs. Should Barack Obama be elected President, Blagojevich is reportedly considering appointing Duckworth to Obama's vacant Senate seat.NBC 5: Blagojevich Considering Duckworth For Senate (May 23, 2008)

• Chicago Tribune: For Congress: Duckworth (October 18, 2006)