Gabriella Cantwell—better known as Gabby to most—moves with the kind of energy that leaves an impression. She’s tall, athletic, and driven; juggling cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, and track with a smile that hides the hard work it takes to excel. But beneath this public-facing, bright exterior lies something even more powerful—a deep, unwavering pride in her older brother, Gaven, who is currently training as a U.S. Navy submariner and honing his skills at Navy Dive School.

“He’s doing something really tough,” Gabby says with a mix of awe and confidence, “but I always knew he would. He’s always been that way—determined and focused, even after all the injuries he’s had.” Gaven, who survived a harrowing motocross accident a few years ago necessitating a long, six-month recovery, is now pushing himself even harder in a new, demanding chapter of his life, mastering the physical and mental challenges of diving school. “He tells us about holding a brick above his head while swimming with just his legs,” Says Gabby. “It sounds so difficult, but that’s my brother. He’ll find a way to get through anything.”

Gabby’s pride for Gaven isn’t just a quiet admiration; it’s something that’s reshaped the way she views the world. Since Gaven’s enlistment, her relationship with the American flag has transformed. “I never used to think much about it,” she reflects. “But now, when I see a flag, it hits me differently. It’s a symbol of everything my brother’s working for.” She recalls a recent event at the school’s FFA tractor show, where she saw a flag lying on the ground. “A kid didn’t realize, but it bothered me a lot. I picked it up and put it back where it belonged. That’s something I wouldn’t have done before.”

Her perspective on patriotism and service has deepened as she watches her brother follow in their father’s footsteps. “Our dad was in the Navy, too,” Gabby explains. “He was stationed on a submarine in San Diego, just like Gaven is now.” While their father might downplay his achievements, telling them he “barely made it through,” the family is proud of Gaven’s dedication—especially after he secured the highly coveted station in San Diego, finishing second in his class at boot camp. “It’s a big deal,” Gabby says with a smile. “It just worked out perfectly.”

But while Gaven is making waves in the Navy, Gabby is forging her own path back home in Momence. As a senior in high school, she’s preparing for a future in occupational therapy, following in the footsteps of her mother, who also works in the field. “I’m looking at a bunch of schools in Michigan,” Gabby shares. “I love the beach, so it’d be great to be near the water.” Her top choices include Western Michigan and Grand Valley State University, but she’s also considering staying closer to home to save money and eventually transferring.

Between schoolwork, college applications, and her various sports teams, Gabby has plenty on her plate. “I’ve been playing volleyball since seventh grade,” she says, “and people always assume that because I’m tall, it’s easy. But I’ve had to put in a lot of work outside of practice to get better. Being tall helps, but it doesn’t make you good.” That work ethic extends beyond the volleyball court, into her academics and her involvement with FFA. “I’ve learned a lot about leadership through FFA,” she says. “It’s helped me become more outgoing, more confident in presentations.”

Gabby’s leadership skills were on full display this year when she was crowned Gladiola Queen at Momence’s annual Gladfest, a title that carries with it more than just a crown. As part of her candidacy, Gabby had to write an essay on why people should visit Momence, and her thoughtful, persuasive response earned her the top spot. “It’s not really a pageant,” she explains with a laugh. “You write an essay, you do an interview, and they choose who they think is the best fit. I talked about what makes our community special—the people, the support, the feeling of home.”

It’s clear that for Gabby, her family and her community are at the heart of everything she does. Whether she’s leading on the volleyball court or reflecting on the sacrifices her brother is making in the military, she carries a deep sense of pride and responsibility. And while Gaven’s journey might take him to the depths of the ocean, Gabby’s path is just as meaningful—rooted in her desire to help others and make a difference in the world.

As she looks to the future, Gabby is excited for what’s to come. “I have so many options,” she says. “It’s overwhelming, but in a good way.” Whatever path she chooses, it’s clear that she’ll face it with the same determination and strength that runs in her family—whether on the volleyball court, in the classroom, or in the career that lies ahead.

And as for her brother? “I’m just really proud of him,” she says, her voice softening. “He’s out there doing something really important, and that makes me want to work harder, too.” In Gabriella Cantwell, the Momence community has a young woman who is not only proud of her family’s service but is ready to make her own mark—one that’s sure to make her family and our community proud.