Steele Chapter Salutes Arnold Air and Silver Wings Cadets

AFA’s D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter in Northern Virginia reaffirmed its commitment to developing future Air Force and Space Force leaders during its annual “Salute to Arnold Air and Silver Wings” event on October 22, 2026, in Arlington, Va.

More than 40 Arnold Air Society cadets and Silver Wings members from Howard University, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland joined chapter members for an evening of mentorship, camaraderie, and professional development.

The evening featured keynote remarks by AFA Executive Vice President Maj. Gen. Larry “Stutz” Stutzriem, USAF (Ret.), who emphasized the importance of experience in developing effective leaders.

“Developing as a leader is a contact sport. You can read a hundred leadership books and watch a hundred leaders lead, but nothing replaces the growth that comes from actual experience,” Stutzriem said. He encouraged cadets to seize leadership opportunities, reflect on their experiences, and continuously improve.

Ben Coffey, chapter executive vice president and the evening’s master of ceremonies, reinforced the chapter’s commitment to mentoring future leaders.

“One of our most important responsibilities is to invest in the next generation of Air and Space Force leaders,” Coffey said. “Our chapter is proud to support their development, recognize their contributions, and help them build the relationships and leadership skills that will serve them—and our nation—well for years to come.”

That commitment extends well beyond the annual celebration. Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings student leaders serve on the chapter’s Executive Committee, helping plan events, shape chapter activities, and gain valuable organizational leadership experience. Col. Jens Lyndrup, commander of Air Force ROTC Detachment 330 at the University of Maryland, also serves as the chapter’s AFROTC liaison.

The chapter actively supports cadet-led community service initiatives, including the Lahm Squadron’s upcoming 5K fundraiser benefiting, in part, the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling food pantry. Cadets are also helping organize the chapter’s November 19 “One Team” Air Force and Space Force Birthday Celebration.

Through mentorship, meaningful leadership opportunities, and shared community service, the Steele Chapter continues to strengthen the bonds between generations while helping prepare tomorrow’s Air Force and Space Force leaders.