Steele Chapter Celebrates New Arnold Air Society Members

The AFA D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter joined the Frank P. Lahm Squadron of Arnold Air Society to welcome three new members during the squadron’s fall induction ceremony at the historic College Park Airport in Maryland on October 24, 2026.

The newest members are Noah Lorenz, Johns Hopkins University; Joanna Chandler, University of Maryland; and Ivori Taliferro, Bowie State University. All participate in Air Force ROTC through the University of Maryland’s Detachment 330, which serves students from the university and 17 other institutions throughout the National Capital Region.

“Today’s induction ceremony celebrated more than the addition of new members,” said Cadet Ryan Hart, Lahm Squadron commander. “It recognized the dedication, perseverance, and commitment of three outstanding cadets who earned this achievement through hard work and determination. We are proud to welcome them into our squadron and look forward to the contributions they will make.”

The ceremony, held at the Prince George’s County Police helicopter hangar, provided a fitting setting for celebrating future Air Force leaders.

Established in 1909, College Park Airport is recognized as the world’s oldest continuously operating airport. It served as an early military aviation training center, where the Wright brothers instructed Army officers, including Lt. Frank P. Lahm, the squadron’s namesake and one of America’s earliest military aviators. Lt. Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, for whom Arnold Air Society is named, also served at College Park as an instructor.

Bob Hill, Steele Chapter secretary, represented the chapter and delivered the keynote remarks. After recounting the airport’s distinguished aviation heritage, Hill challenged the cadets to recognize that they, too, will write history as they confront emerging national security challenges and embrace technological and scientific advances.

“While the future is both exciting and presents challenges, remember that while the world changes, you must stay true to the core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all you do,” Hill emphasized. “Those rock-solid principles will serve you well regardless of what you do in life.”

The ceremony reflected the longstanding partnership between the Steele Chapter and the Lahm Squadron, built on shared commitments to leadership, service, and professional development.

In addition to attending chapter events, Arnold Air cadets and Silver Wings members actively participate in the chapter’s Executive Committee, help plan activities, and engage with experienced military and civilian leaders. These opportunities foster mentorship, camaraderie, and relationships that extend beyond the classroom.

Through these partnerships, the Steele Chapter continues to invest in tomorrow’s leaders while honoring the aviation pioneers whose legacy inspires them.