Some of the best ideas begin almost by accident.

Our Air Commandos Lunches began during the COVID years as a simple way for members and friends to get together when many of our normal activities had come to a halt. The idea was straightforward. Pick a local restaurant, have lunch, enjoy good conversation, and keep people connected.

ROC’s Firehouse Grille in Palm Desert became the gathering place.

The name “Air Commandos” was chosen completely in jest. It was a satirical nickname for an unofficial lunch gathering, and somehow it stuck.

We are, of course, fully aware that there are real Air Commandos. They are the highly trained Airmen of the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command, carrying out demanding missions around the world.

Our Air Commandos have a very different mission.

We specialize in hamburgers, sandwiches, coffee, adult beverages, solving the world’s problems, and occasionally telling stories that improve with every retelling.

In a way, our lunches remind me of the famous Algonquin Round Table, the legendary gathering of writers, actors, critics, and humorists who met almost daily at New York City’s Algonquin Hotel from 1919 through 1929. Their conversations became famous for their wit, opinions, storytelling, and friendships. While our lunches certainly do not claim that kind of literary history, they share something just as important. Good conversation and the enjoyment of spending time with interesting people.

Many of our guest speaker ideas, community partnerships, and lasting friendships can trace their beginnings to conversations around those lunch tables. There is something about sharing a meal that encourages people to relax, exchange ideas, and simply enjoy one another’s company. There are no agendas, no speeches, and no formal programs. Just lunch and conversation.

Everyone is welcome. You do not have to be an Air & Space Forces Association member to attend.

We usually meet every other Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at ROC’s Firehouse Grille in Palm Desert. Current dates are always posted on the Calendar page here on our website. If you would like to confirm a date or have any questions, simply email us at AFAPalmSprings@outlook.com

We hope you’ll join us at a future Air Commandos Lunch. Pull up a chair, order your favorite lunch, and become part of the conversation. Thanks!