The Air Force Retiree Activities Program was established in 1972. The purpose of the program is to provide an interface between the active-duty force and the retiree population. At Davis-Monthan, a retiree of any military service, a family member or any person trying to assist a retiree is welcome to request assistance from the DM RAO.

The mission of the Retired Activities Office is to solicit volunteers to participate in and support various base programs. The regulation governing the RAO operation is AFI 136-3106. Some specific tasking are:

- Conduct Retiree Orientation Programs explaining veteran’s rights and entitlements.

- Tax and Estate planning.

- Volunteer recognition.

- Support the Staff Judge Advocate Volunteer Income Tax Program.

- Conduct Retiree Orientation Appreciation Day Briefings.

- Provide volunteers to attend base-level Advisory Councils.

- Publish a Retiree Newsletter.