As part of our Batchmate Spotlight stint. We had one of our reporters fly to Sophia's HQ and interview her on the spot. Here's what transpired.
95: When did you get married?
SO: 4 JULY 2000 (SEPARATED DEC23, 2001). Been together less than a month.
95: Sorry, but I didn't quite get that.
SO: [We were married] 1yr and 5
months...we've never been together...he was there [in
the Philippines] and I was here. I strongly discourage
long distance relationships. It's a w
aste
of years and money.
95: Do you have any kids?
SO: NO I DONT, THANK GOD.
95: So how long have you been in the USAF?
SO: 12 MAY 1999(3YRS)
95: How did you land a job in the USAF?
SO: I was in New York for 6months. I didn't know what to do until I've heard someone mentioned it. I spoke to a recruiter and took the test. My family, everyone was discouraging me except my recruiter. I was confident about it since I was physically fit that time and because of my experience in PMT in high school I knew what to expect.
95: What exactly does a Material Control Journeyman do?
SO: My job description is a supply person. We support everyone by providing,storing, delivering general supplies such as aircraft parts, transportation parts, civil engineer, etc. at the right time and at the right place. We get rotated, there's a lot to learn so it never gets old. Making rank is fast. Being in Transportation Material Control we do the spending, controlling of equipment and expensive tools.
95: Where are you stationed?
SO: Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Tucson, Arizona, an hour away from Mexico boarder (ranked #2 for car theft in US, first is Phoenix).
95: I suppose I shouldn't ask if you drive your own car. Any chance we'll be seeing you in the December 2002 reunion?
SO: IT DEPENDS ON WHO'S COMING.
95: Everybody!
SO: Really hmmmm...Maan Soria?
Sandra Cayanong? Ivy Cuan? Quito San Agustin?
Vince? Jasper Cambe?
95: Wait a minute, I'm the one who should be asking the questions here! Got pictures of you and your hubby?
SO: NOT FOR ADDUHS95
95: Whoa! All the more we need to see it! Just kidding. So what're your plans in the near future?
SO: Option 1: leave military and finish school here; Option 2: leave militaryand finish school there (pay peso earn dollar); Option 3: stay in the military and retire (20years) while taking bachelors degree at the same time.
95: I'm running out of questions. Got any you want me to ask?
SO: I volunteered on OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM(October 27, 2001-March 29,2002). I was in a classified location in Pakistan and lived in one of the 4 worst bases they opened. We started the base. For 5 months, we lived in tents and ate meals ready to eat. We were with the front liners (Marines) and some allied forces. Could you imagine how it feels when someone you know never came back? It is freaky. That assignment was a blast for me.
95: Wow, you're leading a very
exciting life. Thanks so much for the interview.
We'll be seeing you in the reunion!
