317th’s Recruiting Chief Encourages AFA’s Recruiting Mission

“Boy, am I enthusiastic!”

That cheerful chant—delivered with passion by Chief Master Sgt. Ladiwina Gilly—was more than just an icebreaker at the AFA Gabriel Chapter’s May 14 meeting in Fairfax, Va. It is a rallying cry for the Air Force and Space Force recruiting community, a source of personal motivation, and a reminder of their vital mission. As Gilly explained, Air Force recruiters across the country use that cheer to boost their energy, fuel their optimism, and reaffirm the purpose behind their work: ensuring that America’s best and brightest continue to join a winning team.

Speaking to an audience of AFA members from Northern Virginia, Chief Gilly, the Senior Enlisted Leader of the 317th Recruiting Squadron at National Harbor, Md., delivered a powerful message about the state of military recruiting—and the crucial role AFA members can play in supporting it.

Gilly enlisted as a 17-year-old and has served more than 22 years in the Air Force, including assignments at every level including a tour at the Air Force Recruiting School. She described the demanding and dynamic nature of the recruiter’s role: “You have to be part salesperson, part motivator, and always mission driven.” Success, she emphasized, starts with positivity and the ability to inspire others to serve.

A recurring theme in her remarks was the power of personal connection.

“Tell your story,” Gilly urged AFA members. “Share why you joined, what you gained, and how you grew. Those real-life experiences can motivate the next generation.”

She encouraged members to engage directly with young people by simply asking, “Have you thought about joining the Air Force? Have you spoken with a recruiter?” That small nudge, she said, can open the door to life-changing opportunities.

Gilly also praised the AFA Advocates to Inspire Military Service (AIMS) initiative, a formal partnership between AFA and the Air Force Recruiting Service—as a timely and impactful effort.

“Thank you for stepping up as partners,” she said. “Together, we can help achieve the recruiting mission.”

The Gabriel Chapter’s engagement with Chief Gilly highlights how local AFA Chapters can support national priorities by energizing members, amplifying the recruiter’s message, and serving as enthusiastic ambassadors for military service. Just like the cheer that opens every recruiter’s day, AFA’s involvement can ignite enthusiasm and inspire action across the country.