Quick Facts
Location: Tucson, Arizona (Southeast Arizona, 6 miles south of downtown Tucson)
Branch: U.S. Air Force
Size: 10,640 acres
Population: ~5,500 active duty, 3,500+ civilians, 1,000+ contractors
Major Units: 355th Wing (A-10 Thunderbolt II operations), 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) headquarters, 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG – “Boneyard”)
Mission: Close air support operations (A-10), aircraft storage and reclamation, Southwestern air defense
Climate: Sonoran Desert – hot dry summers (110°F+), mild winters, 350+ days of sunshine annually
Famous For: World’s largest aircraft storage facility – the “Boneyard” with 4,000+ retired aircraft
Overview & History
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base stands as one of the most strategically important and visually striking military installations in the United States. Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert near Tucson, Arizona, the base is home to the 355th Wing and its fleet of A-10 Thunderbolt II “Warthog” aircraft, providing unmatched close air support capability for ground forces worldwide.
The installation gained worldwide recognition as the location of the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), commonly known as “The Boneyard”—the largest aircraft storage and reclamation facility in the world. With over 4,000 retired military aircraft parked in the Arizona desert, AMARG represents $35 billion in aerospace assets and serves as both a parts supplier and a preservation facility for aircraft that may return to service.
The base’s history began in 1919 as Fisherville Aviation Field, renamed in 1927 to honor Tucson aviators Samuel H. Davis and Oscar Monthan, both of whom died in military flying accidents. During World War II, Davis-Monthan served as a major B-29 Superfortress training base, and the dry desert climate made it an ideal location for aircraft storage even then.
Today, Davis-Monthan serves three critical missions: close air support through A-10 operations, command and control as headquarters for 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) covering Central and South America, and aircraft regeneration through AMARG. The base conducts joint training with Army and Marine Corps units at nearby Barry M. Goldwater Range, maintaining readiness for combat operations worldwide.
The 355th Wing operates approximately 80 A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft, specializing in close air support, forward air control, and combat search and rescue. These aircraft provide critical protection for ground troops and are specifically designed to survive in hostile fire environments.
Mission & Major Units
355th Wing
The host wing operates and maintains A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft for close air support missions. The 355th Wing includes the 355th Operations Group (three A-10 squadrons), 355th Maintenance Group, 355th Mission Support Group, and 355th Medical Group. The wing maintains combat-ready status for rapid worldwide deployment.
12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern)
Headquartered at Davis-Monthan, 12th Air Force serves as the air component to U.S. Southern Command, responsible for military operations throughout Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. This numbered air force conducts security cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and counter-narcotics operations across 31 countries.
309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG)
The famous “Boneyard” stores more than 4,000 aircraft from all military services on 2,600 acres of desert hardpan. AMARG performs four primary missions: aircraft regeneration (returning stored aircraft to flying status), parts reclamation (harvesting components for active aircraft), aircraft storage (preserving planes in desert conditions), and aircraft disposal (environmentally responsible elimination). The facility saves the Department of Defense approximately $3 billion annually through parts reclamation alone.
563rd Rescue Group
Operating HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters and HC-130J Combat King II aircraft, the 563rd Rescue Group provides combat search and rescue capability. This unit can deploy globally within hours to recover isolated personnel in hostile or denied territory.
Other Tenant Units:
- Arizona Air National Guard 162nd Wing (F-16 operations)
- Marine Corps forces conducting A-10 training
- Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations
- Multiple joint training units and specialized squadrons
Living at Davis-Monthan
Base Housing
On-base family housing includes 1,100+ homes in various floor plans from 2-4 bedrooms. Neighborhoods feature desert landscaping, parks, and community centers. Wait times vary by rank and family size, typically 3-6 months for most ranks. Priority goes to key and essential personnel, followed by time on the waiting list.
Off-Base Housing
Tucson offers extensive affordable housing options in all directions from the base. Popular areas include Tucson suburbs on the east side (Vail, Rita Ranch), south Tucson neighborhoods near the base, and Catalina Foothills to the north. Rental costs for 2-3 bedroom apartments range from $1,200-$2,000. Home purchases average $280,000-$450,000 depending on neighborhood and size.
Schools
No DOD schools exist at Davis-Monthan; families use Tucson Unified School District, Sunnyside Unified School District, and Vail School District. Many highly rated schools serve areas near the base. The University of Arizona in Tucson provides outstanding higher education opportunities, and numerous community colleges offer associate degrees and vocational training.
Childcare
The Sonoran Winds Child Development Center provides care for children 6 weeks to 5 years. Family Child Care homes offer additional options. The Youth Center serves school-age children and teens with after-school programs, sports leagues, and summer camps. Registration and wait times vary; families should register as early as possible.
Healthcare
The 355th Medical Group operates the David Grant Medical Center on base, providing primary care, dental, pharmacy, optometry, and limited specialty services. Serious medical needs are referred to civilian facilities in Tucson or to regional military medical centers. Tricare beneficiaries have access to numerous civilian providers throughout metro Tucson.
Base Amenities & Recreation
Fitness & Sports:
Thunder Alley Fitness Center features cardio equipment, free weights, group fitness classes, swimming pools, racquetball courts, and outdoor sports fields. The Sand Trap Golf Course offers 18 holes with desert mountain views. Outdoor Recreation rents camping equipment, kayaks, and adventure gear for exploring Southern Arizona.
Shopping & Services:
Base Exchange with full department store, military clothing sales, food court, gas station, and specialty shops. Commissary provides tax-free groceries with significant savings compared to civilian stores. Auto hobby shop, education center, library, post office, banks, and numerous other services support daily needs.
Dining & Entertainment:
Multiple dining facilities serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Galaxy Club provides casual dining and entertainment. Desert Thunder Lanes bowling center, movie theater, and various lounges offer entertainment options.
Family Support:
Airman & Family Readiness Center assists with deployments, relocation, employment, financial counseling, and personal issues. Military & Family Life Counselors provide confidential non-medical counseling. The Military OneSource program offers 24/7 support services.
Local Area – Tucson, Arizona
Davis-Monthan sits in Tucson, Arizona’s second-largest city with 550,000+ residents in the metro area. The city offers a unique blend of desert beauty, Mexican-American culture, outdoor recreation, and affordable living.
Climate:
Sonoran Desert climate with hot summers (100-110°F June-August), mild winters (60-70°F daytime), and minimal humidity year-round. Tucson receives 350+ days of sunshine annually with only 11 inches of rain. Winter nights can drop to freezing, but snow is extremely rare in the city.
Things to Do:
- Saguaro National Park (giant cacti forests)
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (world-class zoo and botanical garden)
- Downtown Tucson historic district with restaurants and culture
- Mount Lemmon (ski slopes 30 minutes from 100°F heat)
- Pima Air & Space Museum (largest private aircraft collection)
- University of Arizona sports and cultural events
- San Xavier del Bac Mission (historic Spanish colonial church)
- Sabino Canyon hiking and nature
- Old Tucson movie studio and theme park
- Tubac arts colony and shopping
Outdoor Recreation:
Southern Arizona offers world-class hiking in multiple mountain ranges, rock climbing in Cochise Stronghold, mountain biking on desert trails, camping in Coronado National Forest, bird watching (Tucson is a birding hotspot), and scenic drives through desert landscapes and historic mining towns.
Cost of Living:
Tucson offers below-average costs compared to other major Southwestern cities. Housing remains affordable, groceries are reasonable, and state taxes are moderate. Military families find their pay goes further here than in many other assignment locations.
Cultural Highlights:
Strong Mexican-American heritage, world-renowned Mexican food, active arts scene, University of Arizona Wildcats athletics, spring training baseball, and numerous festivals celebrating Southwestern culture year-round.
Employment & Education Opportunities
Military Spouse Employment:
Tucson’s economy offers jobs in healthcare, education, tourism, aerospace, and government. Major employers include University of Arizona, Raytheon Missiles & Defense, Banner Health system, Tucson Unified School District, and numerous hospitality and retail businesses. The base employs civilians in various positions.
Higher Education:
- University of Arizona (major research university)
- Pima Community College (multiple campuses)
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (aviation focus)
- Numerous specialized schools and training programs
Military Tuition Assistance and GI Bill benefits apply to all schools. Online degree programs supplement local options.
Important Considerations
Climate Adaptation:
Summer heat is intense (110°F+ common June-August). Air conditioning is essential. Hydration is critical during outdoor activities. Most residents adapt by staying indoors mid-day during summer and enjoying outdoor activities mornings, evenings, and throughout the mild winter months.
Desert Environment:
Wildlife includes rattlesnakes, scorpions, javelina, coyotes, and various desert creatures. Learn proper precautions. Desert landscaping is common (many homes have minimal lawns to conserve water). Dust storms (“haboobs”) occur occasionally during monsoon season (July-September).
Distance & Isolation:
Tucson is 60 miles north of the Mexican border, 115 miles south of Phoenix, 400+ miles from California beaches, and 375 miles from Las Vegas. The city feels somewhat isolated but offers everything needed for comfortable living. Major cities require 2-6 hour drives.
Border Proximity:
Located near the U.S.-Mexico border, some areas have Border Patrol presence. The border crossing at Nogales is 65 miles south. Many families enjoy day trips to Mexico for shopping and dining in safe, touristy border towns.
Getting There
By Air:
Tucson International Airport (TUS) sits 10 miles from base with direct flights to major hubs. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (2 hours north) offers more flight options and often better fares. Rental cars widely available.
By Car:
Interstate 10 runs east-west through Tucson connecting to Phoenix (northwest) and El Paso (southeast). Interstate 19 runs south to Nogales and the Mexican border. Davis-Monthan is accessed from I-10 or via major Tucson surface streets.
Local Transportation:
Personal vehicle essential. Base shuttle buses serve some areas. Sun Tran city buses cover Tucson but with limited routes and frequency. Ride-sharing services available. Biking possible but limited by summer heat and distances.
Quick Tips for PCS to Davis-Monthan
✅ Arrive prepared for heat – Have working A/C in vehicle and home
✅ Register for housing early – Both on-base and local rentals fill quickly
✅ Explore Tucson before deciding where to live – Different areas have distinct personalities
✅ Budget for cooling costs – Summer electricity bills can be high
✅ Take advantage of The Boneyard tours – Unique opportunity for aviation enthusiasts
✅ Get outdoors in winter – Perfect hiking weather October-April
✅ Learn about desert safety – Heat, wildlife, flash floods during monsoon
✅ Visit Mexico – Easy day trips to Nogales and other border towns
✅ Join base communities – Strong sense of camaraderie among A-10 units
✅ Use Tucson’s military-friendly culture – Numerous discounts and support
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base combines exceptional flying missions, the world’s most unique aircraft storage facility, and an outstanding desert city location to create one of the Air Force’s most distinctive assignments. Whether you’re flying Warthogs, working in the Boneyard, or supporting critical missions, you’ll find both professional fulfillment and enjoyable desert living in Tucson, Arizona.