AFA Engages Future Enlisted Airmen, Guardians in Florida

May 7, 2026   |   By Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Nugent, USAF (Ret.)

The AFA AIMS (Advocates to Inspire Military Service) program recently engaged future Airmen and Guardians in Margate, Fla., where Delayed Entry Program (DEP) recruits gathered at the Margate Sports Complex for a special presentation. At the invitation of Master Sgt. Rosa, Enlisted Accessions Flight Chief for Broward and Palm Beach Counties, the session provided firsthand insight into Air and Space Force service, leadership, and career opportunities.

The discussion highlighted career pathways exemplified by Carol DiBattiste, a member of AFA’s D.W. Steele Chapter in Virginia who rose from an enlisted Airman to commissioned officer and judge advocate and ultimately served as Under Secretary of the Air Force. The hour-long engagement generated thoughtful questions and strong participation, reflecting the recruits’ enthusiasm to serve.

Events like this connect experience with aspiration, helping prepare the next generation of Airmen and Guardians.

Carol Ann DiBattiste, who rose from enlisted service, commissioned officer and judge advocate, and ultimately served as Under Secretary of the Air Force (1999-2001) highlighting her career pathways through her personal experience to new Air Force recruits in the Delayed Enlisted Program (DEP) yesterday at the Margate Sports Complex in Margate, Fla.