Submitted photo From left, Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel presented the United States Air Force Reserves Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Amelia Earhart Award to Cadet Capt. Amelia Matteson-Garza of Jamestown Composite Squadron 402.

A cadet from the Jamestown Composite Squadron 402 of the United States Air Force Reserves Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has been recognized for outstanding performance. This cadet has achieved high marks in proficiency, demonstrated academic excellence, and excelled in physical fitness evaluations.

Cadet Capt. Amelia Matteson-Garza of Jamestown was honored with the esteemed Amelia Earhart Award. The award was presented to her by County Executive P.J. Wendel during a ceremony held at the Jamestown Airport, which serves as the home station for the JCS 402.

The officer in charge of 402 JCS, Lt. Col. Ellen Maternowski, remarked, “This is a prestigious honor for the cadet to attain. Over the years, I have had a handful of cadets receive this award, and it truly requires significant hard work and dedication to achieve it.”

The Amelia Earhart Award is a distinguished achievement for cadets in the Civil Air Patrol, presented in honor of Amelia Earhart, a pioneering aviator known for her remarkable contributions to aviation history. This award is granted by CAP National Headquarters to recognize the successful completion of the specific requirements in Phase III of the program. Cadets who receive the Earhart Award are elevated to the rank of Cadet Captain. Furthermore, upon reaching the age of 21 and completing Level 2, Part One of Senior Member training, these cadets can be promoted to First Lieutenant. Additionally, Cadet Captains who choose to transition to the senior program between the ages of 18 and 21 will receive the designation of Technical Flight Officer (TFO), contingent upon completing Level 2, Part One of Senior Member training.- gocivilairpatrol.com.

In addition to her achievements, Matterson-Garza garnered high praise from state Senator George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay, and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor, R-Westfield, who both recognized her outstanding contributions with commendations that highlight her dedication and impact on the community.

Matteson-Garza is the child of Jonathan Andrews and Hope Matteson-Andrews from Frewsburg, as well as Robert Garza from Waco, Texas. She is the granddaughter of Joyce Reynolds, who lives in Dewittville, and is currently a student at Frewsburg High School.