Air Force Association DW Steele, Sr. Memorial Chapter

June 6, 1944.

Eighty-two years ago, Allied forces launched the invasion of Normandy, opening a path to the liberation of Europe and ultimately victory in World War II.

The young men who landed on Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword beaches faced overwhelming odds. Many knew they might never return home. Yet they pressed forward, driven by duty, courage, and a commitment to something greater than themselves.

More than 4,000 Allied troops lost their lives on D-Day, and thousands more were wounded. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom has never been free.

Today, the D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter of the Air & Space Forces Association honors all who served during the Normandy invasion and remembers those who gave their lives in defense of liberty.

May we always be worthy of the legacy they left behind.
🇺🇸 We remember.
🇺🇸 We honor.
🇺🇸 We are grateful.

"As we honor the heroes of D-Day, we also recognize the Airmen, Guardians, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who continue to stand watch in defense of the freedoms secured by the Greatest Generation."

Honoring the bravery that changed history.

The D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter congratulates Air & Space Forces Association Life Member Carol DiBattiste on receiving the Chief Justice John Marshall Lifetime Achievement Award.

Carol’s extraordinary career began as an enlisted Airman and Air Force recruiter before she earned her commission and became a judge advocate. She later served as Under Secretary of the Air Force and continued serving the nation in senior leadership roles across government and industry.

Today, Carol continues giving back through mentorship and support of AFA’s Advocates Inspiring Military Service (AIMS) initiative.

Thank you, Carol, for your lifetime of leadership and service to our nation.

This Memorial Day, the D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter of the Air & Space Forces Association honors the American service members who gave their lives in defense of our nation.

Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start of summer. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for those who never came home. Across generations — from the Revolutionary War to today — courageous Americans stepped forward to protect freedom, democracy, and the nation they loved.

More than 1.1 million Americans have died while serving in uniform. Their sacrifice reminds us that liberty carries a cost, and that countless military families have borne that burden on behalf of all Americans.

As flags are placed at cemeteries and memorials across the country, we remember the fallen and honor their legacy of service, courage, and patriotism.

Please take a moment this Memorial Day to reflect on the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes and to remember the families and friends who continue to honor their memory every day.

Aim High & Semper Supra. 🇺🇸

Looking for something meaningful to do this Memorial Day weekend? There’s still time to visit the CAF RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit at Stafford Regional Airport through May 25.

This powerful experience honors the legacy, courage, and contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen and the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) through immersive storytelling, aviation history, and educational exhibits designed to inspire future generations.

Visitors can experience:

✈️ A fully restored P-51C Mustang on display
🎬 A 53-foot mobile theater featuring the stories of the Tuskegee Airmen and WASP
📚 Educational exhibits focused on leadership, perseverance, and service
🇺🇸 A meaningful Memorial Day tribute honoring those who served our nation

📅 Open through May 25
⏰ 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily
📍 Stafford Regional Airport | Stafford County, VA

As we reflect this Memorial Day weekend, this is an opportunity to honor history, recognize sacrifice, and celebrate the pioneers who helped shape the future of aviation.



Photo Credits: History.com/LoneStarFlight

As Armed Forces Week continues and we celebrate Armed Forces Day today, the D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter of the Air & Space Forces Association proudly recognizes all who serve — and all who support the mission behind the uniform.

This week, we honor:
✈️ Airmen who provide global vigilance, reach, and power
🛰️ Guardians who protect the space domain and strengthen national security
❤️ Military families whose sacrifices and resilience support every mission
🇺🇸 Veterans whose service continues to inspire future generations
🚀 The future force — the next generation preparing to answer the call to serve

We are also grateful for the partners, programs, and communities helping strengthen and support our military community throughout the year, including the JBAB Food Pantry, Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings, CyberPatriot, AFA StellarXplorers, and the many recruiters, educators, volunteers, and leaders helping inspire and support the next generation of Airmen and Guardians.

Through initiatives like the JBAB Food Pantry, our chapter remains committed to supporting Airmen, Guardians, and military families facing food insecurity and times of need — reinforcing AFA’s mission to advocate, educate, and support.

Today, more than 1.33 million Americans serve on active duty across our Armed Forces, including approximately:
• 325,000 active-duty United States Air Force Airmen
• 70,000 Air Force Reserve Airmen
• 107,000 Air National Guard Airmen
• More than 9,000 United States Space Force Guardians

Established in 1949 following the creation of the Department of Defense, Armed Forces Day reminds us that readiness never stops. Around the world, our Armed Forces remain prepared to defend our nation whenever and wherever needed.

The Steele Chapter proudly thanks all who serve our nation.

Aim High & Semper Supra!

The Steele Chapter was honored to present the AFA CAP Cadet of the Year award to Cadet Lt Col Samuel Ten at the Burke Composite Squadron awards ceremony!

With more than 110 cadets present, the evening celebrated leadership, service, and the bright future of our next generation.

Cadet Ten has trained dozens of cadets and continues to serve as an instructor pilot—an incredible example of dedication.

We’re proud of our partnership with CAP squadrons across Northern Virginia and grateful to support their STEM programs and activities.

Today we celebrate National Astronaut Day—a tribute to the pioneers who dared to lead America into space.

In 1959, NASA selected seven exceptional military test pilots—now known as the Mercury Seven. Representing the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, they set the standard for excellence in space exploration.

On this day in 1961, Alan Shepard made history as the first American launched into space. His 15-minute flight proved that America was ready to compete—and lead—in the space race.

Their courage continues to inspire the young cadets, students, and future leaders we serve across our community.

Aim High. Semper Supra.



Photo Credit: National Day Calendar

More than 90 members, guests, and cadets came together on April 17 as the D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter honored the heroes of the Doolittle Raid 🇺🇸

Held at Nighthawk Brewery & Pizza, our Salute to the Doolittle Raiders was a night of great fellowship, meaningful reflection, and connection across generations—featuring Civil Air Patrol Virginia Wing, JROTC, Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings.

Col (Ret.) Matt Coleman brought the story of the Raiders to life, reminding us that they were young volunteers—just like many of the cadets in attendance—who answered the call with courage and determination.

We also joined the national livestream and took part in the traditional toast led by Dan Caine—a powerful moment for everyone in the room.

“The Steele Chapter was honored to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid,” said Chapter President Darian "DJ" Padilla.

One attendee shared that the Toast was “a major highlight” of their entire military career—and three new members joined the Air & Space Forces Association after the event!

That’s what honoring heritage is all about: inspiring today’s Airmen and tomorrow’s leaders.

What an incredible achievement by the Burke CAP “Cyber Monkeys”!

At the CyberPatriot National Finals, they earned:
🥉 3rd Place – All Service Division
🥈 2nd Place – Cisco Networking Challenge

Out of nearly 4,800 teams nationwide, only 25 made it to the finals—an outstanding accomplishment!

The Steele Chapter was proud to support this team with a $1,000 grant for new equipment, helping them prepare for success.

This is what happens when mentorship, teamwork, and opportunity come together.

Congratulations to the cadets, coaches, and mentors. Your hard work is making a difference!

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Air Force Reserve! 🎉

Since April 14, 1948, Reserve Airmen have answered the call—ready to Fly, Fight, and Win at a moment’s notice.

Today, more than 70,000 Citizen Airmen serve around the world, contributing to missions that include:
✈️ Airlift and refueling
🌪️ Hurricane Hunters
🪂 Pararescue and personnel recovery
🏥 Medical and humanitarian support
🛰️ Cyber and space operations

Many serve part-time—balancing civilian careers and military service—while others serve full-time. All are united by a shared commitment to defend our nation.

With the ability to deploy in as little as 72 hours, the Air Force Reserve remains a vital part of America’s defense.

Please join us in thanking these dedicated Airmen and their families for their service and sacrifice.

Aim High—and Happy Birthday!



Photo Credit: Unknown