Steele Chapter, Cadets Raise a Toast to the Doolittle Raiders

In celebration of AFA’s global Doolittle Raiders Memorial Toast, AFA’s D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter brought together more than 90 members, guests, and cadets on April 17 at Nighthawk Pizza, a valued Community Partner of the Chapter in Arlington, Va.

The event blended fellowship and heritage, as attendees gathered to honor one of the most daring missions in Air Force history.

Attendees reflected the chapter’s broad reach, including long-time and new members, along with cadets from Civil Air Patrol, JROTC, Arnold Air Society squadrons at the University of Maryland and Howard University, and Silver Wings from George Washington University.

Guest speaker Col. Matt Coleman, USAF (Ret.), a member of the Doolittle Raider Association Board of Directors, brought the mission to life, tracing its bold execution and emphasizing that the Raiders, volunteers close in age to many cadets present, proved that courage, teamwork, and determination can overcome any challenge.

Following his remarks, attendees joined the national livestream and participated in the traditional toast led by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine.

The event’s impact extended beyond those in attendance. One chapter member shared plans to follow the tribute remotely while continuing a personal tradition of watching “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo.” Another attendee noted that three colleagues joined AFA after the event, highlighting its lasting influence.

“The Steele Chapter was honored to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid,” said Steele Chapter President DJ Padilla. “The event was a meaningful tribute to courage, legacy, and service.”

“They went on and on and could not stop talking about the event,” said Col. Frank Yang, who invited several colleagues from Virginia’s Air National Guard. They all rated the Toast as a major highlight during their many years of military service.”

The Steele Chapter’s Salute to the Doolittle Raiders was more than a commemoration: It was a living connection between heritage and the next generation. By bringing together Airmen, Guardians, and cadets to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the Raiders, the chapter reinforced the enduring values that define the Air Force and Space Force.