EAA Chapter 770 Springfield, IL

🎉Congratulations to Captain Jeff Skiles, former vice-chair of the EAA Young Eagles program, former vice president of EAA Chapters and Youth Organizations, EAA Lifetime member, and first officer of the 2009 “Miracle on the Hudson” flight, aboard U.S. Airways 1549. He retired on November 17, after making one final flight for American Airlines from London to Chicago.

Up next, he tells us he has plans to fly charter for Wisconsin Aviation.

Well done on an outstanding decades-long flying career, Capt. Skiles! 👏 Everyone at EAA is wishing you the best in your retirement and we hope we’ll see you soon at Oshkosh.

Congratulations to chapter member, and current member of the Illinois Air National Guard Christian Barillas on earning his pilot slot!!!

TSgt Cristian Barillas, a member of the 183d Air Mobility Operations Squadron in Springfield, IL, joined the Illinois Air National Guard at 17 with a dream of becoming a pilot. Over a decade later, he's earned multiple awards, completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree, and is now transitioning into his new role as a pilot.

TSgt Barillas says, “Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich cultural legacy of our community and showcase the positive impact Hispanics have across all sectors, including the military. I’m proud to serve and lead, setting an example for future generations of Hispanic aviators.”

182nd Airlift Wing
183d Wing