Through the Ranks: Susan Ahn Cuddy's Rise as a Female Asian Trailblazer in the Military

Headshot of Susan
Susan Ahn Cuddy in World War II. Created April 6, 2010. Photo from the U.S. Naval History and Heritage. Accessed February 18, 2025.

Throughout the history of the United States, women have been placed under societal standards to be "ladylike". World War II marked an increase in racial prejudice as well.

"We were always told how lucky we were to be born in a free country."

Despite both sexism and anti-Asian sentiments of the time, World War II Navy Lieutenant Susan Ahn Cuddy broke barriers and paved the way for Asian Americans and women in the military.

Susan standing with other fellowship recipients
Susan Ahn Cuddy with other fellowship recipients of the National Security Agency to study at the University of Southern California in 1956. Taken in 1956. Photo from Philip Cuddy. Accessed February 18, 2025.