Steele Chapter Serves Those Who Serve at Single Airmen Luncheon

AFA’s D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter in Northern Virginia hosted a luncheon for more than 130 Airmen and Guardians from the United States Air Force Honor Guard on April 14 at their training facility on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling.

The luncheon provided a hot meal, but more importantly, it delivered a message of appreciation and support.

 “We are honored to serve those who serve, bringing together over 130 Airmen and Guardians united by one mission,” said Chapter President Darian “DJ” Padilla. “Hearing and seeing their candor, commitment, and sense of purpose were a powerful reminder that the strength of our future force is already here.”

The chapter recognized the dedicated service of Honor Guard members who represent the Air Force and Space Force at ceremonies across the nation and around the world. It also reinforced the chapter’s ongoing commitment to supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families in the National Capital Region.

This effort builds on the chapter’s broader partnership with the JBAB Top 3 Council to address food insecurity on base. Together, the Steele Chapter and the Top 3 established the only military community food pantry in the National Capital Region. Since summer 2025, the Steele Chapter has contributed more than $6,000 in funding and over 700 pounds of non-perishable food to sustain the pantry.

Supported by a grant from AFA’s United Forces & Families program, and matched by chapter funds, the pantry now serves an average of 20 families each day. The need is especially acute for single Airmen and Guardians assigned to JBAB, where the absence of an on-base dining facility requires many to buy and prepare their own meals in their dormitory or travel off base, which is challenging due to their work schedules and because many junior Airmen do not own vehicles.

Through partnerships, targeted support, and visible engagement, the Steele Chapter continues to demonstrate what it means to stand with Airmen and Guardians, ensuring they know they are valued, supported, and never alone.