Author Talk & Signing — The Lee F. Simmons Story · Palm Springs · June 10, 2026
Victor Simmons. Reserve My Seat
Palm Springs · Author Talk & Signing

A son. A father. A story finally told.

One evening with author Victor Simmons to hear the untold story of his father, Lee F. Simmons — America's first African American steward aboard Air Force One.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 6:00 — 7:30 PM PT Avalon Hotel Palm Springs
Free with RSVP · Limited Seating
President Gerald R. Ford shaking hands with Lee F. Simmons in a presidential office. Simmons wears his Air Force Technical Sergeant dress uniform. The original print is inscribed by President Ford: To my very good friend, Lee, with best wishes — Gerald R. Ford.
Lee F. Simmons with President Gerald R. Ford · 1970s
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Wednesday, June 10, 2026
6:00 — 7:30 PM PT (Pacific Time) · Avalon Hotel Palm Springs

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Free Admission All Ages Free Street Parking Signed Copies Onsite 90 Minutes
An Intimate Evening

What to expect at the Avalon

Join Victor Simmons for the official Coachella Valley launch celebration of The Lee F. Simmons Story. An evening of storytelling, history, and conversation — followed by book signing and time with the author.

  • Author presentation & storytelling from Victor Simmons
  • Live audience Q&A
  • Book signing with the author
  • Cocktails & light bites
  • Signed copies available for purchase onsite
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The Story

America's first African American Air Force One steward

Lee F. Simmons rose from rural Alabama to serve aboard the presidential aircraft of four U.S. Presidents — John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Gerald R. Ford. For decades, his story lived only in family memory. Now, his son brings it to the stage.

This is a story about service, discipline, and the quiet excellence that broke barriers in one of the most selective assignments in the United States military. It is also the story of a father, told by his son.

"An engaging and meaningful historical tribute that preserves the legacy of Lee F. Simmons and his groundbreaking service aboard Air Force One."

BookLife · Publishers Weekly
Hear The Stories Behind

Historic moments aboard Air Force One

  • President Kennedy's final flight home following Dallas
  • Lyndon B. Johnson's swearing-in aboard Air Force One
  • The first presidential flight to the People's Republic of China
  • Presidential travel to the Soviet Union during the Cold War
  • Years of service to Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford
From The Archive

A career preserved in photographs

President Ford and Lee F. Simmons in a presidential office, 1970s. Original print personally inscribed by Ford.
Lee F. Simmons with President Gerald R. Ford
State banquet toast during the 1972 U.S. presidential visit to the People's Republic of China.
State banquet · Presidential visit to China, 1972
Official U.S. presidential delegation walking the Sacred Way at the Ming Tombs during the 1972 visit to the People's Republic of China.
Official delegation at the Ming Tombs · 1972
Good To Know

Frequently asked questions

Is it really free?
Yes — admission is free with RSVP. Seating at the Avalon is limited, so we recommend reserving in advance. You'll receive a confirmation email and a reminder the day before.
What happens at the event?
A short presentation and storytelling from Victor Simmons, a live audience Q&A, and a book signing — plus cocktails, light bites, and a chance to view historical photos connected to the story.
Do I need to buy a book to attend?
No. Attendance is free. Signed copies will be available to purchase onsite if you'd like one.
Is this event just for children and families?
No. While the book is written for younger readers, the story and its historical significance resonate with adults, educators, history lovers, aviation enthusiasts, and the wider community.
What should I wear, and is there parking?
Palm Springs casual or resort casual attire is perfect. The Avalon Hotel & Bungalows is at 415 South Belardo Road — free street parking is available nearby, and valet is available at the hotel.
Giving Back

A portion of the evening's proceeds will support the
Boys & Girls Club of the Coachella Valley

A cause Lee F. Simmons championed for decades through community leadership in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 · 6:00 — 7:30 PM PT

Reserve your seat at the Avalon

Seating is limited. Please reserve in advance so we can prepare a seat, a copy, and a glass for you. Free admission with RSVP.

Reserve My Seat — Free
Reserve My Seat — Free