When access to Nellis Air Force Base was restricted to all but mission-essential personnel amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Las Vegas-area retirees found that even a routine trip to the Exchange was suddenly out of the question.

When the Italian government imposed a nationwide shutdown on March 9, Aviano Air Base followed suit—and with the restrictions prompting the closure of Exchange restaurants, dining options were limited for the Airmen who were now unable to leave the base.

Exchange alteration shops have found a creative way to help during the pandemic while adhering to physical distancing restrictions. About 40 alteration shops worldwide are making face coverings in response to the Department of Defense guidance requiring the use of them on installations.

Military Clothing Store Manager Lari Sasser spent more than an hour with customer Rani Hall, ensuring her husband would be relieved of duty in his Army Service Uniform, complete with the medals and ribbons he earned in service of his country.

Fort Belvoir earned the Exchange’s top prize in its Global Connection contest to recognize diversity and inclusion.

When options for finding hot meals were limited for personnel at Bayne Jones Army Community Hospital because of COVID-19 concerns, the Exchange’s Pizza Hut came through with deliveries.

The Fort Hood Exchange is testing an online ordering system for several of its restaurants.

“We hope this program brings Warfighters a sense of normalcy despite the uncertainty of the current situation.”

“We solve for yes. We do everything we can to help command.”

“I do this because I was needed and it’s my job and duty to help.”