Col. Sandy Best will become the first female general in Minnesota National Guard history when she's promoted to brigadier general, the Minnesota National Guard confirmed Thursday.

"She is a perfect example of the amazing men and women of the Minnesota National Guard who do so much to serve our country," U.S. Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., said in a statement.

Franken said Best's "historic promotion … is well-deserved, and I am confident she will continue to serve our state and country with distinction."

The Guard plans to officially announce Best's promotion Feb. 18, with a formal ceremony scheduled for Feb. 25.

Best will command the Air National Guard units in Minnesota, which include the 133rd Airlift Wing at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and the 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth.