Dave Melgaard
2021 President

The Coronado Thunderbirds is a social club for people retired from Sandia National Labs, Los Alamos National Labs, and federal agencies including DOE, NNSA, and the military.  We hold monthly meetings at 11:00 am on the second Tuesday of the month with a wide variety of speakers targeted to the interests of the members.  Recent programs included telemedicine, improving the environment of Albuquerque, artificial intelligence, ballooning in New Mexico, the history of Albuquerque and of railroading in New Mexico, beekeeping, the impact of Spain on the Revolutionary War, and Col. Eric Felt on the United States Space Force.  Feel free to explore the GENERAL MEETINGS link for a complete detailed list of the programs.

All Coronado Thunderbirds are required to become members of the Kirtland Air Force Base Air Force Club, the Mountain View Club. As members, we are provided access to Kirtland Air Force Base, to the social activities and meal privileges of the Mountain View Club, and access to other Kirtland Force Support activities.

In addition, we have organized travel outings and tours, and have been able to obtain significantly discounted tickets to Popejoy Hall programs and other venues.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, these activities are on hold and our meetings are currently being held via Zoom.  We are hoping to soon resume the activities and our in-person lunch meetings at the Mountain View Club.

We keep our members informed of our programs, activities, and KAFB information with a bimonthly newsletter sent by email and “snail mail,” and with a Calling Committee.  UpDates are also sent out to keep our members aware of any recent changes.  We encourage you to explore the links on this website to learn about the benefits of being a part of our Club and to learn how to become a member, under the MEMBERSHIP link.

We would love to have you be a part of the fun! 😊