Scottsdale, AZ (31 March, 2025) – Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Doug DeVries to its Board of Directors. With a rich background as an accomplished private pilot and seasoned business executive, DeVries brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for supporting the legacy of veterans and aviation history.
Mr. DeVries is an avid aviator and aircraft restorer. His first restoration was a Stearman biplane, the WWII primary trainer used here at Thunderbird Field II. In 2006 he took this plane to Australia and flew it 2,000 miles through the outback as a fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. In his professional life, he developed and manufactured life support ventilators. The company he founded, Ventec Life Systems, provided many of the ventilators used to save lives during the COVID pandemic. Mr. DeVries has served several non-profits, including the board of the Seattle Museum of Flight. 
“We are excited to welcome Doug to our Board of Directors,” said Gunnar Buzzard, President/CEO of Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. “Doug’s passion for aviation, combined with his leadership experience, will be invaluable as we continue to expand our efforts to educate the public about the history of Thunderbird Field II and the role it played in World War II. We look forward to working with him to preserve this important piece of history for future generations.”
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is dedicated to honoring the history and legacy of Thunderbird Field II, one of the original training sites for pilots during World War II. Through veteran program support, aviation scholarship programs, community outreach, and the preservation of the historic site, the Memorial serves as a tribute to the men and women who trained there and served their country.
Doug DeVries expressed his excitement about joining the Board, saying, “I’m deeply honored to be a part of the Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial. Aviation and veterans hold a special place in my heart, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the preservation of this important part of our nation’s history. I am excited to work alongside the incredible team at the Memorial to further its mission and ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices made by those who served us all.”
DeVries joins a distinguished group of individuals on the Board of Directors, all of whom share a commitment to preserving the rich history of Thunderbird Field II and supporting the Memorial’s ongoing educational initiatives.
For more information about Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. and its programs, please visit www.tbird2.org
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the legacy of the men and women who trained at Thunderbird Field II during World War II. Located in Scottsdale, AZ, the Memorial preserves and shares the history of this iconic site, offering direct support to Veterans programs, scholarships for 2/4 year aviation related education and community engagement opportunities. Through its efforts, Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial aims to inspire a new generation of Americans to recognize the sacrifices made by Veterans and ensure that their stories are remembered for years to come.
For more information, please contact:
Gunnar Buzzard, President/CEO Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.
Phone: 602-315-2765,
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.tbird2.org