In August of 2007, at the tender age of 8, Samantha enjoyed her first Young Eagles flight in an Ercoupe piloted by Robert Porter at the Aurora Municipal Airport. For the next decade, she enthusiastically attended local YE Rallies at Sugar Grove, Lake in the Hills, and Poplar Grove, Illinois. As a teen, Samantha further explored the exciting world of aviation as a recipient of an Advanced Air Academy Campership, sponsored by EAA Chapter 579. She recently earned a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and a master's in Athletic Training, and dreams of returning to the skies when financially feasible.
The proud owner explained that it was a 1934 Waco S3HD–the only one of its kind still flying. I didn’t think it was possible, but my heart swelled, and I felt even more lucky to be co-piloting, let alone riding in his prized possession.
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