The Air Force became the first US military branch to select a woman to serve as the highest-ranking noncommissioned officer in the military on Friday, Fox News reported.

Chief Master Sergeant JoAnne Bass, the current command chief for Second Air Force, will become the 19th chief master sergeant of the Air Force and will succeed Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth Wright, who is expected to retire on August 14.

The incoming Air Force Chief of Staff, General Charles "CQ" Brown, said Bass was selected because of her skills, temperament, experience, and a leadership style similar to his own.