In an interview with the Military Logistics Forum, Dunwoody explained what drew her to become a soldier:
"I grew up in the Army and came from a family who, since 1862, has defended our nation. My great grandfather, my grandfather, my father, my brother, my sister, my niece and my husband are all veterans of this country’s wars. My father is a veteran of three wars and is one of the 25 million veterans living today who served the nation with such incredible courage.
While I joined the Army right out of college, I planned to only stay in the Army to complete my two-year commitment, but it wasn’t too long before I realized that there are no other shoes [boots] I would rather fill then the ones I am wearing right now. As a soldier you can continually serve. It is a calling to be a soldier and there is a great sense of pride and camaraderie in serving the greatest Army in the world."
She has been married to Colonel Craig Brotchie, USAF (Retired) for 18 years.
"I am very honored but also very humbled today with this announcement, I grew up in a family that didn't know what glass ceilings were. This nomination only reaffirms what I have known to be true about the military throughout my career that the doors continue to open for men and women in uniform." Lieutenant General Ann Dunwoody
"I have never considered myself anything but a Soldier. I recognize that with this selection, some will view me as a trailblazer, but it's important that we remember the generations of women, whose dedication, commitment and quality of service helped open the doors of opportunity for us today." Lieutenant General Ann Dunwoody
"There is no one more surprised than I — except, of course, my husband. You know what they say, 'Behind every successful woman there is an astonished man.'" Lieutenant General Ann Dunwoody
“I have followed her career for 33 years. Every assignment she has ever had, she’s done in an outstanding manner. So it really doesn’t surprise me she was the first woman selected for four stars.” Dunwoody's Father, retired Brigadier General Harold H. Dunwoody