Desert Coasties
Special Events
Here you will find some photos from events other than our regular meetings, Christmas parties, or monthly coffee mess gatherings.
Memorial Day 2019
On May 27, 2019, at the Green Valley, AZ, cemetery, Jim Rundlett and Jeff Webster took part in the ceremonies. Jim laid a wreath on behalf of the Desert Coasties and Jeff delivered the keynote speech. Click the button to watch Bob Bonville's video of Jeff's 6.5 minute speech.
Thor Thorsen Awards Ceremony
On March 20, 2019, the Desert Coasties gathered at American Legion Post 131 to award USCG World War II vet Thor Thorsen the medals and awards to which he was entitled but had never received.
Bob Bonville contacted USCG HQ regarding Thor's awards and CWO4 (Ret.) Wayne Zuehls did the honors at the start of the Post's March membship meeting.
Standing (L to R): Kyle Payton, Bob Bonville, Cdr. Gary Thomas (ret.), Jim Taylor. Seated (L to R): Jeffrey Webster, Thor Thorsen, Rear Adm. (ret.) Cari Thomas.
March 2019 Target Shooting
Linda Bonville takes aim as Tom Sullivan coaches her at a shooting range in Rio Rico, AZ.
Jan. 2019 Golf Outing
Admiral Cari Thomas (ret.)
At right, the Desert Coasties invited retired USCG Rear Admiral Cari Thomas to discuss her work as Executive Director of Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (formerly Coast Guard Welfare). CGMA assists Coasties and their families when they need help with housing, education, and disaster relief. Also attending was Admiral Thomas' husband, retired USCG Commander Gary Thomas, Executive Director of The Foundation for Coast Guard History.
Sunshine Knitters of Comanche Wells
The Sunshine Knitters of Comanche Wells in Tucson work all year round knitting hundreds of hats, scarves, shawls, and lap blankets for those who need them to keep warm.
This year (and going forward) they are generously donating their beautifully crafted items to veteran groups, including homeless vets, residents of the AZ State Veterans Home, Women Warriors, hospitalized vets, and others.
All the items were gratefully accepted by the Desert Coasties and in turn, given to the American Legion Madera Post 131 Auxiliary for distribution.
The Desert Coasties acknowledged the Sunshine Knitters with a framed letter and a certificate on Tuesday, October 8, 2019. Their kindness and devotion to others is an example for all of us.
