Steele Chapter at the Joint Base Andrews Air Show

The D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter of the AFA proudly supported the Virginia AFA tent at the Joint Base Andrews (JBA) Air Show, held September 12–14. With more than 100,000 attendees each day, the event provided an unparalleled opportunity to share AFA’s mission of advocacy, education, and support with the broader community.

Several chapter volunteers included Arnold Air Society cadets from the Lahm Squadron at the University of Maryland and the Turner Squadron at Howard University. Their energy and enthusiasm exemplified the next generation of air and space leaders. Members of the national AFA staff, along with volunteers from the Turner and Gabriel Chapters, also contributed, strengthening the Association’s presence at this special event.

The chapter team was also pleased to reconnect with many partners, including Civil Air Patrol cadets from the National Capital Wing. Together, these groups engaged with the public, answered questions about AFA, and encouraged future involvement in programs supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

The air show itself offered something for everyone: two STEAM Hangars filled with hands-on displays for students, a wide variety of vintage and modern aircraft on static display, and of course, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who thrilled the crowd with their precision flying.

Steele Chapter members also met with Air Force STEM representatives to discuss potential partnerships aimed at expanding outreach in Northern Virginia middle schools and high schools. These conversations are expected to translate air show momentum into lasting educational initiatives.

From inspiring cadets to building new partnerships, the JBA Air Show once again proved to be one of the most valuable outreach events in the National Capital Region, with the Steele Chapter showcasing AFA’s mission in full force.