Steele Chapter Bestows Highest Honor to Civil Air Patrol Cadet

AFA’s D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter in Northern Virginia continued its strong support of the next generation of Airmen and Guardians by participating in the Challenger 1 Cadet Squadron’s annual awards ceremony on April 22 at Alexandria City High School.

Chapter Secretary Bob Hill presented AFA’s Civil Air Patrol Cadet of the Year award to Cadet Staff Sgt. Jack Gresens. This award is the highest honor presented by AFA to CAP cadets and recognizes outstanding leadership, character, and service.

“The community of cadets I am involved with is what I find most rewarding,” said Gresens, a high school sophomore. “Whether they attend private schools in DC or are home schooled, we come together to form a unit and serve the community.” Gresens plans on entering the Air Force and serving as a pilot. 

“Seeing young people, often starting as shy cadets, grow into strong, capable leaders is one of the most rewarding parts of this program,” said 1st Lt. Cori Bitterman, the squadron’s Deputy Commander. Bitterman noted that her daughter was one of those painfully shy cadets who has become outgoing and confident, who excels in public speaking and is now attending the Air Force Academy.  

The Steele Chapter remains actively engaged with multiple CAP units across the National Capital Region, supporting cadet development through recognition, mentorship, and shared events. This year the chapter has supported several CyberPatriot teams with new laptops. Just days earlier, cadets from local squadrons joined the chapter for its Doolittle Raiders Memorial Toast, where they honored Air Force heritage and connected with current and former Airmen.

Through partnerships like these, the Steele Chapter continues to invest in developing future leaders and strengthening the Air Force & Space Force community.