DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service has named the winners of its highest honor for operational excellence, the Director/CEO Cup.

The Camp Zama, Maxwell Air Force Base and Puerto Rico Exchanges were awarded trophies recognizing their achievement April 25 during the worldwide Main Store Managers/General Managers Conference in Frisco, Texas.

The award honors one store in each size category (Small, Medium, Large) each year for expert customer service, innovation, business results, community support and command validation for partnerships and engagement. The Camp Zama Exchange won in the Small store category, Maxwell-Gunter won among Medium-sized stores and Puerto Rico was the top Large store.

“We couldn’t be happier to recognize the hard work of the managers and associates who work to make their stores model Exchanges,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “These stores went above and beyond in making the military shopping experience easier, more comprehensive and more personal to our shoppers, and we wanted to make sure they received their due credit.”

Nominated stores are selected based on criteria including Expert Customer Service, Leadership, Business Results, Marketing Efforts and Community Support. Points are awarded based on how well the store meets a series of benchmarks adding up to a possible maximum of 125 points.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is teaming up with Hershey to make spring and summer even sweeter for military shoppers with a chance to win a share of $3,000 in prizes.

From May 13 through July 7, authorized shoppers can enter the Hershey Sweepstakes at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. One first-place winner will take home a $1,500 Exchange gift card, while a second-place winner will receive at $1,000 gift card. The third-place prize is a $500 gift card.

“A little extra spending money is sure to sweeten anyone’s summer,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “The chance to win is just a few clicks away at shopmexchange.com.”

No purchase is necessary to enter the Hershey Sweepstakes. Winners will be drawn on or about July 14.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htmor follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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 Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Julie Mitchell, 214-312-3327 or [email protected].

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service and the Department of Defense’s Defense Media Activity (DMA) today signed an agreement to strategically align their efforts to utilize new technologies to deliver American Forces Network (AFN) content to service members.

“Both the DMA and the Exchange recognize the changing nature of communications, and the rise in importance of the Internet and mobile/cellular channels to our troops,” said Tom Shull, Exchange Director/CEO. “Today’s agreement formalizes a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both organizations to better serve the needs of our service members.”

This new alliance is already underway in Afghanistan, where the two organizations are testing new delivery technologies that show great promise. Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) provided by Exchange-contracted provider DHI is the backbone technology used.  IPTV is an emerging technology that embraces the preferences of younger generations, who are “cutting the cord” in favor of getting their news and entertainment through other channels.    

“Emerging technologies offer tremendous opportunities to stay relevant and improve the service we can provide,” said Mark Verdeyen, Exchange Director of Advanced Telecommunications Services. “Our strong relationships with world-class Internet and Mobile companies provide the foundation make this possible.”   

No additional details or timetable for service expansion are available at this time.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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DALLAS – Military shoppers can say “aloha” to a tropical vacation for two to Hawaii with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s latest sweepstakes.

From May 6 to July 7, authorized shoppers worldwide can enter to win the five-day, four night vacation, which includes airfare, hotel accommodations, transportation to and from the airport and spending money. (Travel must originate in the continental United States.) The $5,000 prize is courtesy of Darrell Lea and Lucky Country, the makers of soft licorice.

“A Hawaiian vacation, complete with warm, tropical breezes and plenty of sunshine, can do wonders for reviving the spirit,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “This trip is a fantastic chance for one lucky winner and a companion to create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Authorized shoppers can enter at shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. The winner of the Darrell Lea/Lucky Country Sweepstakes will be drawn on or about July 14.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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DALLAS – Military shoppers who think they have a top dog…or cat…or bird …or reptile …can try to fetch their share of $3,000 in prizes during the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Patriot Pet Just Say Treat online photo contest.

From May 6 through June 2, authorized shoppers can upload a photo of their prized pet at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. One grand-prize winner in the worldwide contest will take home a $1,000 Exchange gift card, while two first-place winners will each receive $500 gift cards. Four third-place winners will nab $250 gift cards each.

“For many Soldiers and Airmen, pets are very much an important part of their family, providing love and companionship and easing stress of daily duties,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “With the Patriot Pet contest, the Exchange salutes these furry, fuzzy, feathered—and sometimes even scaly—members of the military family.”

Rules and more information for the contest can be found at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes once the contest launches. Just Say Treat winners will be notified toward the end of June.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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DALLAS – Shoppers with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service have the chance to win a tasty trip for two to one of three M&M’S World® retail locations in the United States this summer.

Through May 27, authorized shoppers can enter to win the $2,300 prize package at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. One lucky winner will get to pick from the Las Vegas, Nevada; Orlando, Florida; or New York City M&M’S World® retail locations.

“This summer just keeps getting sweeter and sweeter for Exchange shoppers,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “We offer contests like these for one simple reason: to show Soldiers, Airmen and their families that we care.”

No purchase is necessary to enter or win. The winner will be chosen at random on or about June 2.

For information on M&M’S World® retail locations, visit www.mmsworld.com.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

DALLAS – Military Spouse Appreciation Day falls on May 6 this year, but the Exchange will celebrate the contributions of military spouses all month by offering a chance to win a resort vacation package for two valued at more than $5,000. 

One lucky winner will have their pick of more than 2,000 resort locations worldwide, plus a Samsonite Silhouette Sphere 2 two-piece luggage set, a Sony a6000 digital camera bundle with two interchangeable lenses and camera and lens accessories, and a $2,500 Exchange gift card.

Four runners-up will each receive one $250 Firestone gift card. Overseas runners-up will receive a $250 Exchange gift card. 

The sweepstakes is part of the Exchange’s Because of You program, which has expanded in 2016 to celebrate military families as well as honor active-duty troops, allowing the Exchange to express gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

“Military spouses truly deserve their fair share of credit for their role in protecting our nation’s freedoms,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “Managing a household, raising children, providing unending support for their partner – sometimes while their significant other is thousands of miles in a dangerous war zone – takes a toll only those who have experienced it can understand. That’s why the Exchange is proud to offer a chance to live the good life with a luxurious vacation for two at one of these top-tier resorts.”

Authorized shoppers 18 and older can enter the $5K Vacation Getaway Giveaway online from May 1-31 at www.shopmyexchange.com/becauseofyou. Winners will be chosen at random and notified no later than June 19. No purchase is necessary to enter or win.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

DALLAS – Shoppers with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service can enter to win a sweet surprise this summer during the Candy Carnival sweepstakes.

One lucky winner will receive a $5,000 Exchange gift card courtesy of Promotion in Motion, the makers of Welch’s and Sour Jacks.

Shoppers can enter between April 22 and July 7 at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. The winner will be drawn on or about July 14.

“A prize like this will satisfy the sweet tooth of any shopper,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “We couldn’t be happier to offer military shoppers a chance to spoil themselves this summer with some serious extra spending money.”

The Promotion in Motion Candy Carnival sweepstakes is open to authorized shoppers age 18 and older. No purchase is necessary to win.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service will open its first GNC store outside of the United States this year at the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center mall on Ramstein Air Base.

An opening date for the store is still being determined. Additional GNC locations at other locations in Germany and the Pacific are also under review.

“The Exchange wants Americans serving or living overseas to feel at home, even if they’re thousands of miles away from their families and hometowns,” said Trinidad Saucedo, the Exchange’s senior vice president of services, food and fuel. “We continue to expand our offerings at installations the world over, bringing familiar brands to Soldiers, Airmen and families who sacrifice so much to defend our nation’s freedoms.”

The store represents a milestone for the Exchange. It will be the first third-party branded retailer at an Exchange facility to be directly run by the Exchange instead of the third-party retailer itself.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htm or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON – At 82, an age when most Americans have long settled into retirement, Stella Graham just keeps working, as she has for decades at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston. 

For nearly 48 years, Graham has stayed true to her mission of serving Soldiers, families and retirees at Fort Sam through her part-time job with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. Her servant’s heart keeps her young and is a testament to the Exchange’s core value of family serving family. 

“I like helping, giving back and giving words of encouragement,” said Graham, who works at the Exchange’s food court at Fort Sam. 

The San Antonio resident has spent her entire career in food service at the Fort Sam Exchange. Her husband served in the Army, and he brought her to Fort Sam in 1968, after he returned from Vietnam. Since then, Graham has dedicated her career to serving Soldiers, families and retirees. 

“Everyone knows her,” said Fort Sam Food Court Manager Marjorie Wilson-Granvle, who has been Graham’s boss since 2007. “Everyone calls her ‘Mama.’ I started it, and everyone picked up on it.”  

Graham works several hours every weekday. Her duties include preparing salads, baking bread and ensuring the dining room is ready for Soldiers. 

“And if she’s not here, customers will ask about her,” Wilson-Granvle said. 

Graham’s favorite part of her job is talking to retirees every morning and helping them get their coffee. She also relishes the chance to talk to active-duty Soldiers.

“I love their uniforms,” Graham said.  “My father, my brother, my husband—they all wore the uniform. God bless them.”

Even though she’s 82, Graham isn’t slowing down. Her dedication to doing her job—and doing it well—makes her an exemplary associate, Wilson-Granvle said.

“She’s here early and willing to stay late,” Wilson-Granvle said. “She’s faithful and loyal. Her co-workers have nothing but respect for her.”  

Graham tried to retire once, back in December 1994. Her retirement lasted just two months. She returned to the Exchange because, as a former military spouse, she loved the connection with the military. 

When she’s not working, Graham spends time playing bingo and checking on her daughter and son-in-law, both of whom have physical disabilities that require them to use wheelchairs. 

When it comes to her job at the Exchange, Graham says she wants to continue working until she reaches 50 years of service. 

“I can handle anything that comes my way,” she said.

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 The Army & Air Force Exchange Service goes where Soldiers, Airmen and their families go to improve the quality of their lives through goods and services provided. Exchange earnings provide dividends to support military morale, welfare and recreation programs. The Exchange is part of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors, responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force through the Chiefs of Staff.  To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.aafes.com/about-exchange/public-affairs/press-releases.htmor follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ExchangePAO.

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 Media Notes:

 For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Julie Mitchell, 214-312-3327 or [email protected].