I was fresh out of U.S. Air Force pilot training, struggling to find my place as the new guy in my first fighter squadron. All the other squadron members seemed so sure of themselves, full of energy and confidence. I wanted to fit in. I wanted to be part of the gang, a member of the club. I wanted my career to flourish. The last thing I wanted to do was make waves or highlight myself as a troublemaker. But it seemed that I couldn't escape it if I wanted to live my beliefs.