AFA Steele Chapter and Air Force Recruiters Celebrate Partnership Milestone 

AFA’s D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter and the 317th Recruiting Squadron celebrated a major milestone in their collaboration with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the squadron’s new office in Alexandria, Va., on November 14. The event, held in partnership with the Mount Vernon-Springfield Chamber of Commerce, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen Air Force recruiting initiatives in Northern Virginia. 

The event featured a list of distinguished speakers, including AFA’s Executive Vice President, Maj. Gen. Doug Raaberg, USAF (Ret.); Virginia House of Delegates member Paul Krizek; Col. Lauren Courchaine, Senior Military Assistant to the Under Secretary of the Air Force; and leaders of the 317th Recruiting Squadron. 

“AFA’s advocacy for the [Department of the Air Force] and its recruiting service is vital to ensuring the continued success of our nation’s defense,” Raaberg said. “The Advocates Inspiring Military Service (AIMS) initiative plays a pivotal role in attracting the nation’s best and brightest to serve.” 

Tech. Sgt. Lloyd Swede, President of the Steele Chapter, also spoke on the growing partnership with the 317th Recruiting Squadron, emphasizing the chapter’s commitment to further expanding the relationship.  

“We are proud of the work we’ve done with the 317th, and we look forward to continuing to support their efforts in Northern Virginia,” Swede said. 

Delegate Paul Krizek, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, echoed the importance of supporting Air Force recruitment. A self-identified “Air Force brat,” Krizek reflected on his family’s military service, noting that his father served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He also highlighted the strong connection between the local community and the military, pointing out that Alexandria is home to many current and former Air Force members. 

Col. Lauren Courchaine, Senior Military Assistant to the Under Secretary of the Air Force, was another key speaker. Having previously commanded the 37th Training Wing, which includes the Recruiters School, Courchaine spoke to the unique challenges recruiters face.  

“Recruiting is not impossible, but it is incredibly demanding,” she said. “The recruiters at the 317th are doing an outstanding job.” 

Chief Master Sgt. Ladiwina Gilly, Senior Enlisted Leader of the 317th, accepted the chamber membership plaque, symbolizing the squadron’s growing commitment to the local community. She then led the squadron in the “Recruiters’ Chant.” 

The event concluded with the ceremonial ribbon cutting, officially marking the opening the new recruiting office. Attendees were invited to tour the facility and enjoy refreshments as they celebrated this exciting new chapter in Air Force recruiting. 

Looking ahead, the Steele Chapter and the 317th have ambitious plans to continue promoting Air Force recruitment in Northern Virginia.  

“We’re incredibly excited to be part of the 317th’s efforts and remain committed to building on this important partnership,” Swede said. 

As this collaboration grows, the AFA and the Recruiting Service are poised to inspire and recruit the next generation of Air Force leaders, ensuring the continued strength and success of the U.S. Air Force. 

Learn more about AFA AIMS and how Chapters can partner with their local AFRS Squadron here.