The Air & Space Forces Association's Teacher of the Year Program is about more than recognizing outstanding educators. It's about investing in teachers whose passion and innovation create lasting opportunities for their students and communities.

The experience of Annette Larson, the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Wright Memorial Chapter's 2025 Teacher of the Year and the 2025 Ohio AFA State Teacher of the Year, is a perfect example of that ripple effect.

Recently, after receiving her official AFA Teacher of the Year jacket from National Headquarters, Larson shared a heartfelt reflection with the Wright Memorial Chapter about what the award has meant to her.

"I stood a little straighter and prouder while wearing it," she wrote. "It is of very nice quality, and I will wear it with pride."

More importantly, she wanted our chapter to understand the impact that our Teacher of the Year program has had—not only on her professionally, but on the hundreds of students, teachers, and families she serves.

Over the past year, Larson has continued to expand STEM and STEAM education opportunities while sharing the recognition she received from the Wright Memorial Chapter and the Ohio AFA.

Among her accomplishments, she:

• Spoke to the entire Trotwood Madison City Schools staff during the district's annual convocation, where her AFA Teacher of the Year recognition was highlighted before school leaders, elected officials, and community representatives.
• Presented at the Wright State University Learn Local Conference, where she acknowledged the Air & Space Forces Association during her presentation.
• Presented at the National Science Teaching Association Conference in Anaheim, California, sharing innovative STEM education practices with educators from across the nation.
• Completed her doctoral dissertation and is preparing to defend her Ed.D. research focused on integrating STEM education into the elementary classroom.
• Continued leading her district's STEM program despite challenging budget reductions, with the program remaining intact because of its demonstrated value.
• Served as her school's Intervention Assistance Team Lead, helping teachers implement strategies that support student success.
• Expanded classroom learning after being selected as a 2025 Funds for Teachers Fellow, using her educational experience in Costa Rica to create new learning opportunities for her students.
• Secured grant funding to transform STEM into STEAM by integrating professional artists into classroom instruction, culminating in a vibrant superhero-themed mural that connects science concepts with creativity, perseverance, and character.
• Partnered with Five Rivers MetroParks to establish Madison Park Elementary as one of only two "Seedling Schools," creating a new school garden, outdoor learning experiences, and environmental education opportunities.
• Organized an expanded STEAM Week and a community STEAM Night that welcomed more than 300 students, families, and community members.

Perhaps most meaningful was how Larson chose to use the financial awards she received through the AFA Teacher of the Year program.

Although she was encouraged to use the funds personally, she instead invested them back into her students and school. The award helped purchase classroom resources, art supplies, materials for collaborative mural projects, and stainless steel container gardens that now support the school's outdoor learning environment.

In reflecting on the past year, Larson shared:

"Please share my appreciation with others. I want your AFA chapter to understand the impact of its work."

Her impact extends beyond her own classroom. Larson also shared that the opportunities provided through the Wright Memorial Chapter, including participation in the Dayton Air Show, inspired her son, Paul Smith, who is now interning at the Air Force Research Laboratory through the SOCHE program while pursuing engineering studies through the University of Dayton.

Every year, the Wright Memorial Chapter recognizes exceptional educators through its Teacher of the Year Program. Annette Larson's story reminds us that recognizing outstanding teachers creates opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. It reaches students, families, schools, and communities, fostering innovation, inspiring curiosity, and helping prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators, and future Airmen and Guardians.

That is the true ripple effect of the AFA Teacher of the Year Award.

The Air & Space Forces Association Wright Memorial Chapter welcomed members, supporters, educators, military and community leaders to its chalet during the 2026 Dayton Air Show, providing guests with an outstanding venue to enjoy one of the region's premier aviation events while strengthening connections among those who support Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

The chapter extends its sincere appreciation to Chris Mardis for leading the planning and execution of this year's chalet event. His dedication, along with the efforts of numerous chapter volunteers and the catering staff, ensured a memorable experience for attendees. Special thanks are also extended to Vita Eonta, whose thoughtful decorations transformed the chalet into a warm and inviting space for guests throughout the weekend. Their hard work and commitment exemplify the spirit of volunteerism that makes events such as these possible.

In addition to witnessing the exciting aerial demonstrations, chapter leaders were honored to spend time with the Wright Memorial Chapter's Teacher of the Year, who was recently recognized as Ohio's Teacher of the Year, and her family. Her accomplishments reflect the important role educators play in inspiring the next generation of innovators, scientists, engineers, and military leaders.

The Dayton Air Show continues to showcase the Miami Valley's rich aviation heritage while serving as a gathering place for military members, veterans, educators, industry partners, and community supporters. Events like the AFA Wright Memorial Chapter chalet help advance the Association's mission of educating the public, advocating for a strong national defense, and supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

The Wright Memorial Chapter looks forward to building on the success of this year's event and thanks everyone who attended and contributed to making the 2026 Dayton Air Show weekend a tremendous success.

Stacia Gonzalez is an elementary teacher in the Xenia, Ohio, school district and was recognized as the Chapter’s Teacher of the Year. She then competed and won at the state level for Ohio as well.

Under the banner of “Cultivating Foundational Engineering and Computational Thinking” Ms. Gonzalez implemented a rigorous and engaging foundational STEM curriculum systematically introducing students to the core principles of engineering, design, and computational thinking essential for advanced fields, including aerospace. Her program focused on the hands-on application of the engineering design process and modern technological literacy, preparing students to become early innovators.

Key Accomplishments and Achievements include:

●           Structural and Materials Engineering: Ms. Gonzalez successfully utilized fairy tales and familiar scenarios to teach fundamental structural concepts. Students engaged in challenges that required them to plan, build, test, and improve their designs, developing an early understanding of stability, forces, and material properties. Notable projects included the Three Little Pigs House Engineering Challenge, where students designed structures to withstand wind force, and the Building a Bridge for the Gingerbread Man, which developed an understanding of balance and strength. She also led the Baby Bear Chair and Goldilocks’ Bed challenges, where students explored structural strength and stability through testing and redesign.

●           Computational Thinking and Robotics: Ms. Gonzalez introduced concepts crucial for modern technology and design. She led two lessons in Tinkercad 3D Modeling, in which students used CAD tools to review 3D shapes, practice spatial reasoning, and learn foundational engineering design skills such as placing, resizing, and manipulating objects on a digital workplane. In Robotics, students used LEGO Education Spike Essential kits in introductory and loop lessons, applying icon-based coding blocks to program robotic vehicles to turn and move. Separately, students used screen-free Botley robots to practice sequencing, directional coding, and loops using handheld controllers and coding cards. Ms. Gonzalez demonstrated instructional leadership by teaching the LEGO Spike coding lesson to two other kindergarten classes and sharing the Polar Express Magnets lesson with a colleague.

●           Physical Science and Inquiry: Other scientific concepts were explored, such as building Simple Circuits with batteries and copper tape to understand closed paths and the flow of electricity. Students also investigated magnetic force in the Polar Express Magnets activity.

Ms. Gonzalez’ impact on students cannot be understated.

Ms. Gonzalez’s curriculum cultivated essential skills that define a successful learner and problem solver:

●           Her students developed a “learner’s mindset” as they met the challenge of programming movement repetition using loops.

●           Students developed communication and collaboration skills as they are required components in nearly every project.

●           Students developed early computational thinking through coding and sequencing activities, and spatial reasoning through 3D modeling and the magnets challenge.

●           The electronic sharing of student 3D designs with families also resulted in strong engagement and very positive feedback.

Through these diverse and well-structured activities, Stacia Gonzalez provided her kindergarten class with a strong, hands-on introduction to the engineering design process and computational literacy, equipping them with the critical thinking and collaborative skills necessary for future STEM success.

On Saturday, June 6, members and volunteers from the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Wright Memorial Chapter and the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) Chapter 751 came together to host their annual Veterans Affairs Picnic at the Dayton VA Medical Center.

The picnic is a longstanding tradition that provides an opportunity to thank our nation's veterans for their service while enjoying great food, fellowship, music, and camaraderie. Events like these remind our veterans that their sacrifices are remembered and deeply appreciated.

This year's event was made possible through the dedication of many volunteers who generously gave their time to serve those who have served our country. The collaboration between AFA Chapter 212, who provided the gift bags, and AFSA Chapter 751, who provided all the food, continues to demonstrate the strength of our shared commitment to supporting the military and veteran community.

Special recognition goes to Vita Eonta (AFA Wright Memorial Chapter) and Judy Garcia (AFSA Chapter 751), whose leadership and coordination helped make this annual event another tremendous success.

The chapter would also like to thank:

• The Wright Patterson First Sergeants for their continued support and volunteer efforts for cooking and serving the hot dogs, hamburgers, and sides.
• Kearney & Company for their generous support of the event by donating playing cards for the gift bags.
• Geoff Oliver ("Ollie") for providing outstanding musical entertainment that added to the festive atmosphere throughout the day.

Most importantly, thank you to every volunteer who donated their time and energy to make this event special. Your dedication reflects the AFA mission of honoring our Airmen, Guardians, veterans, and their families while strengthening the bonds within our military community.

To all of the veterans who joined us, thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment to our nation. It was our privilege to spend the day celebrating you.

 The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Wright Memorial Chapter is proud to recognize the incredible teamwork and dedication of the volunteers who recently helped relocate the Wright-Patterson Airman's Attic to better serve our military families.

On May 22, the Wright-Patterson Airman's Attic was notified by the Base Chaplain's Office that it would be relocating from the third floor to the building's auditorium level. The move was designed to improve accessibility for young Airmen and their families, especially parents with small children, by eliminating the need to carry strollers, children, and household items up three flights of stairs.

With very little notice, volunteers sprang into action.

During the weekend of May 23, an outstanding team of young Airmen joined dedicated volunteers to move shelving, clothing racks, furniture, and thousands of donated household items to the new location. Thanks to their hard work and teamwork, the entire facility was successfully relocated in just a few days.

The effort didn't stop there.

Volunteers spent the following week carefully organizing merchandise, restocking shelves, arranging displays, and preparing the new space to welcome patrons. Their dedication paid off, as the Airman's Attic officially reopened its doors on June 2, ensuring there was no lengthy interruption in service to the military families who depend on it.

The Wright-Patterson Airman's Attic is one of the most utilized organizations within the Chapel Support Center, providing free clothing, household goods, baby items, and other essential necessities to junior enlisted Airmen and their families. By moving to the first floor, the facility is now more accessible and convenient for the families it serves every day.

The Wright Memorial Chapter is especially proud of Anna Schulte, Colonel (Retired), USAFR, Director of the Chapter's AFJROTC and Civil Air Patrol Programs, who serves as one of the Airman's Attic's dedicated volunteer leaders. Her continued commitment, along with the efforts of the entire volunteer team, exemplifies AFA's mission of supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

The AFA Wright Memorial Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to every volunteer and young Airman who contributed to this remarkable effort. Your willingness to step up on short notice and work tirelessly ensured that military families continued receiving the support they rely on without missing a beat.

Service before self isn't just a motto—it's demonstrated every day by volunteers like these.

The annual VA2K event encourages people to live active lifestyles and allows participants to support homeless Veterans through voluntary donations of food and clothing items. The Dayton VA medical center held its event on Friday, May 15th. The VA2K event included a short two-kilometer walk (1.24 miles) around the VA campus and around the grotto.  Members from the Wright Memorial Chapter of the AFA took advantage of the nice weather to walk and supported this event with a donation of beef jerky snacks. 

      

Pictured are Jill Willingham-Allen and her sister Joyce, and John and Vita Eonta.

The Air & Space Forces Association Wright Memorial Chapter was honored to help lead the community commemoration recognizing the 60th anniversary of the heroic actions of Airman First Class William H. "Bill" Pitsenbarger, United States Air Force Medal of Honor recipient.

Held on April 11, 2026, the event brought together Airmen, veterans, community leaders, elected officials, members of the Pitsenbarger family, and citizens from across the Miami Valley to remember one of the Air Force's greatest heroes. During the Vietnam War, A1C Pitsenbarger voluntarily descended into an intense firefight to rescue and care for wounded Soldiers, ultimately sacrificing his own life while saving others. His extraordinary heroism was later recognized with the Medal of Honor.

We are grateful that WDTN featured this special commemoration, helping share Bill Pitsenbarger's remarkable story and ensuring his legacy of courage, sacrifice, and selfless service continues to inspire future generations.

The Wright Memorial Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to our many partners, volunteers, guest speakers, and everyone who participated in making this tribute a meaningful and memorable event.

We invite you to watch WDTN's television feature highlighting A1C Pitsenbarger's legacy and the community's efforts to honor his service.

Watch the WDTN Feature

https://www.wdtn.com/as-seen-on-2-news/william-bill-pitsenbarger-us-air-force-pararescueman-parajumper/#/questions/5882795

The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) Wright Memorial Chapter is proud to congratulate the Beavercreek High School AFJROTC Drill Team on an outstanding performance at the 2026 National High School Drill Team Championships held May 2–3 in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Through the generous support of our members and community partners, the Wright Memorial Chapter helped sponsor the team's travel to the national competition. We are honored to invest in programs that develop leadership, discipline, teamwork, and character in our nation's future leaders.

The Beavercreek AFJROTC cadets represented Ohio with excellence, earning multiple national titles and top finishes against the best drill teams in the country.

Division II Unarmed (B-2 Squad)
• National Champions – Overall Division II Unarmed
• 1st Place – Inspection
• 1st Place – Exhibition
• 5th Place – Regulation

Competing against 16 elite teams from across the nation, the B-2 squad captured the Overall Division II Unarmed National Championship, earning the title of the nation's best.

Division I Armed (B-1 Squad)
The B-1 squad also delivered an exceptional performance, finishing among the nation's elite in a highly competitive field of 18 teams.

Their accomplishments included:
• 1st Place – Inspection
• 1st Place – Color Guard

The team also celebrated another outstanding achievement as Staff Sergeant Trey Davidson of the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Wing repeated as the World Drill Champion Soloist, continuing a remarkable tradition of excellence.

These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the cadets, instructors, coaches, families, and volunteers who support the Beavercreek AFJROTC program throughout the year.

The AFA Wright Memorial Chapter is committed to supporting programs that inspire young people to pursue leadership, citizenship, military service, and careers in aerospace. Congratulations to every cadet who represented Beavercreek High School with professionalism and pride on the national stage.

Go Bombers!

Supporting AFJROTC and Civil Air Patrol programs is one of the many ways the AFA Wright Memorial Chapter fulfills its mission of developing America's future Airmen, Guardians, and aerospace leaders.

The Wright Memorial Chapter proudly announces Cadet Master Sergeant (C/MSgt) Aryah Pritchett of Wayne High School as the recipient of this year’s AFA JROTC Award.

The AFA Award is presented annually to a cadet who exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, academic achievement, and character within their Air Force Junior ROTC unit. Despite being a first-year cadet, C/MSgt Pritchett has already distinguished herself through her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

C/MSgt Pritchett’s aspirations extend well beyond high school. She has expressed a strong desire to attend the United States Air Force Academy, where she hopes to pursue a career in medicine and ultimately serve as a physician in the United States Air Force. Her ambition to combine military service with a calling to help others reflects the AFA’s core values.

The Air & Space Forces Association is proud to celebrate an extraordinary season for the Beavercreek High School AFJROTC Bombers Drill Team, whose success continues to inspire our local community.

Most recently, the Bombers earned first place overall at the Tecumseh Regional Drill Meet, officially clinching their fourth consecutive State of Ohio Drill Championship. This remarkable accomplishment reflects the discipline, teamwork, and leadership these cadets have demonstrated throughout the season.

The excitement surrounding this season extends well beyond Ohio. The team also recently competed in the Air Force Open National Drill Championships, where they were crowned National Champions in both the Armed and Unarmed Divisions for the third consecutive year. Their outstanding performance included first place finishes in six of eight events, along with two second place finishes.

Our chapter is honored to support programs like this by providing funding for the trophies awarded to the winners of each division. Recognizing the dedication and excellence of these cadets is one of the many ways AFA WMC helps encourage leadership development and celebrate the next generation of aerospace minded leaders.

The regional meet was also especially meaningful as the team took time to recognize its seniors prior to the final local competition of the year. It was a special moment to honor the students whose leadership and commitment helped shape this championship legacy.

With this momentum, the Bombers are now headed to Daytona Beach for the All Service Nationals, where they will continue representing their school, community, and the values that organizations like AFA proudly support.

Congratulations to the Bombers Drill Team on an incredible season, and thank you to our members for continuing to support programs that inspire young leaders across our community.