Our Programs
All of our programming is dedicated to supporting the airmen and families of
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.
While we can never fully repay them for their service to our community and country, we strive to show our deep gratitude through meaningful support and heartfelt appreciation.
Our Programs
One Year Away Program
The Tucson business community and Davis-Monthan AFB, in collaboration with the Desert Thunder Squadron, have launched the "One Year Away" initiative to support transitioning service members and veterans who are one year away from separation from the Air Force and re-entry, or in many cases first time entry, into the civilian workforce. Through the Edge4Vets program, participants learn to translate their military strengths into tools for civilian success and are then linked with partner employers. One of the key components to success is the 'Wingman mentorship' provided by incredible professionals in our Tucson community whom assist with the creation of individual plans articulating their strengths to employers. The kickoff was held on May 5th, 2025 with incredible attendance by both participants and HR partners.
Sincere gratitude to AZ Bowl for their $7500 grant funding which was tripled by a match from Winers & Diners. These organizations have made it possible for both implementation of the program and funding for the first 30 participants.
Additional thanks to the following partners: Community Foundation of Southern Arizona, Charro Chico, Vantage West Credit Union, and HSL properties, alongside key partners Sun Mechanical, Banner Health, Pima County, AGM Container Controls, Jim Click, O'Rielly Chevrolet, Arizona at Work, Pima Community College, and Tucson Airport Authority.
Greater Tucson Leadership
The Desert Thunder Squadron sponsored a jam-packed day at DMAFB for Greater Tucson Leadership participants who enjoyed the opportunity to learn the history and impact of the base.
“I LOVED Davis Monthan day!!! Learning about all the base does and meeting key soldiers was so heartwarming and made me feel even more proud to live in the beautiful city of Tucson. The flying demo was incredible and witnessing a female pilot flying the F-35 was super empowering!!" ~ Tracy N.
DMAFB Family Day at the Zoo
DMAFB airmen and their families were welcomed with a delicious pancake breakfast and lively entertainment, courtesy of volunteers from PICOR, as they enjoyed a day of fun at Reid Park Zoo. The Desert Thunder Squadron was thrilled to see over 1,000 smiling faces exploring the zoo during this inaugural Family Day. The 2024 event was made possible through the generous support of DTS, Vantage West Credit Union, El Tour de Tucson, Reid Park Zoo, and the Winers & Diners Foundation.
We are looking forward to another day of excitement on October 26th 2025, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
DMAFB Bike Giveaway
150 bikes delivered to our incredible Davis-Monthan Air Force families! Thanks to the incredible collaboration between Desert Thunder Squadron and Perimeter Bicycling - El Tour de Tucson, we made it happen. The smiles on the kids' faces said it all!
A huge shoutout to everyone who played a part, especially the airmen who assembled all the bikes. Your teamwork and dedication made this moment unforgettable.
DMAFB Winterfest
Children’s laughter, holiday melodies, exciting games, and Santa’s grand arrival on his sleigh... Desert Thunder Squadron was proud to sponsor Winterfest 2024 at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base for our incredible airmen and their families. We extend heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering dedication and daily sacrifices in protecting our community and nation.
Looking forward to another amazing evening again this year.
All-Access Pass for Airmen
The Desert Thunder Squadron (DTS) and friends are joining forces to provide an all-access pass to Tucson Young Professionals for DMAFB airmen because it can be difficult to fully experience and connect in a new community. TYP curates experiences to explore Greater Tucson, provides professional development resources, mentorship, and connections so airmen can make an impact locally, and discover how Tucson can be their home.
Want to know more? contactus@tucsonyoungprofessionals.com
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Southern Arizona Attractions Alliance (SAAA)
Desert Thunder Squadron is an Honorary Member of the SAAA. The SAAA produces a ”Book of Fun” passport that people can purchase to get discounted admissions to Southern Arizona features such as the Desert Museum, National Parks, Old Tucson, Colossal Caves, etc. These have been given to the Airman and Family Readiness Center for distribution to newly arriving airmen and their families. The books have been very popular with them and help them become familiar with the local Tucson area and oriented into the community.
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