DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AFNS) —
The roar of NASCAR engines wasn’t the only powerful force at the Daytona 500 this year; the U.S. Space Force made a strong showing at the iconic race to recruit the next generation of service members on February 16, 2025.
Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna, represented the Department of the Air Force at the event, engaging with fans and potential recruits.
“Not everyone is willing to do what you’re about to do,” Saltzman said to a group of enlistees and Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets ahead of the race. “Thank you for taking on this tremendous challenge. Your nation is counting on you, and I know you’re going to do all the right things.”
Saltzman and Bentivegna also visited the Air Force Recruiting Enhanced Cognitive Human Ops Activation booth (E.C.H.O.), where attendees could learn more about opportunities to serve. There, they presented coins to recognize the efforts of supporting recruiters.
Space Force recruiting is currently supported by the Air Force as the service works toward standing up its own recruiting capabilities.
Additionally, Saltzman led an enlistment ceremony on the Daytona Track Stage, during which he welcomed 22 new military members.
“We’re here to honor these bold young people who have decided to raise their right hand in support of our great nation,” Saltzman said. “It’s my distinct honor now to give them the Oath of Enlistment.”
While most enlistees present accessioned into the Air Force, the Space Force offers unparalleled opportunities for growth, development, and the chance to make history.
“The Space Force is a young service with a bright future,” Bentivegna stated. “We are looking for the best and brightest minds to join our ranks – the innovators, the problem solvers, the ones who want to be a part of something truly groundbreaking.”
By highlighting the crucial role of space and the exciting career paths available, the service hopes to inspire a new generation to reach beyond the sky and join the Space Force.
“It’s not just about launching rockets; it’s about securing our future. The future of space security is being written now, and the U.S. Space Force is actively seeking the talented individuals who will write the next chapters,” Bentivegna said.
source: www.spaceforce.mil