09/21/2020
"I've really had to face down fears of failure and decide I want to be a confident, capable leader and pilot. One of the reasons for me pursuing Army aviation, despite my fears, was precisely to defeat those fears. I've never wanted to live held down by fear. You have to forgive yourself when you make mistakes, move on, and celebrate successes no matter how small…I feel very privileged to be considered a role model. If even one little girl is inspired to go after their dream, it's worth it." - 1LT Sophia Matias, Illinois National Guard