Steele Chapter and 317th Recruiters Team Up for AIMS Success

Two representatives from the 317th Recruiting Squadron—Lt. Col. Adrian Zollinger, Commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ladiwina Gilly, Senior Enlisted Leader—attended AFA’s 2025 Field Leader Summit at the AFA Operations Center in Arlington, Va., to laud the values of the AFA Advocates Inspiring Military Service (AIMS) initiative. The squadron first became involved with AIMS through AFA’s D.W. Steele Chapter in Northern Virginia, which has been a proud partner of the 317th since spring 2024.

Gilly reported that their team of recruiters has consistently exceeded mission expectations, and these leaders shared some key factors contributing to their success. Bob Hill, the Steele Chapter’s AIMS Chairman, also took the stage to highlight the chapter’s initiatives in support of AIMS and shared actionable ideas for other chapters to replicate this success.

One notable suggestion was the importance of fostering relationships between local recruiters, community leaders, and organizations. Hill emphasized how facilitating connections between recruiters and key figures—such as school board members and principals—can significantly enhance recruitment efforts and create lasting partnerships. By inviting recruiters to become more involved in local AFA Chapters, recruiters not only contribute valuable energy and expertise but also make connections and benefit from a stronger sense of community.

Hill also recommended that Chapters invite recruiters to participate in AFA events, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared experiences. For example, AFA’s upcoming Doolittle Raiders Memorial Toast on April 17 provides a perfect opportunity to include recruiters in a tribute to Air Force history and heritage. Additionally, Chapters can invite local recruiters to nominate candidates for AFA’s Teacher of the Year awards, reinforcing the mutual support between the military and the communities it serves.

Looking ahead, the Steele Chapter and 317th Recruiting Squadron have several exciting initiatives planned to further their AIMS efforts. Among them is a ribbon-cutting event for the squadron’s newly refurbished office in Manassas, Va., and an Air Force-Space Force Enlistment Ceremony. The latter is designed to celebrate new recruits and thank their families for their support and confidence in the Air Force.

Through collaboration, innovation, and continued support for AIMS, the D.W. Steele Chapter and the 317th Recruiting Squadron are leading the way in empowering military service and building stronger bonds between the Air and Space Forces and local communities.