FORT HOOD (March 2, 2012)—Col. Laura J. Richardson, commander of the U.S. Army Operational test Command or USAOTC, was promoted to brigadier general on Friday.

A ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. at the III Corps headquarters flagpole.

Fort Hood's Commander Gen. Lt. General Don Campbell Jr. will conduct the ceremony.

Richardson's military education includes the Aviation Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Army Rotary Wing Course, UH-60 Blackhawk Course, Air Assault School, Airborne School, United States Army Command and General Staff College, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, a Fort Hood spokesperson said.

Her awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Bronze Star Medal, Army Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Medal (seven), and Joint Service Commendation Medal.

Her husband, Brig. Gen. James M. Richardson, is the deputy commanding general for support, 1st Calvary Division, currently deployed to Afghanistan, a spokesperson said.