DALLAS – Summer just got a lot sweeter for Travis Exchange shopper Fe Lauron of Castro Valley, Calif., who won $15,000 through the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Lindt Chocolate Sweepstakes.

The sweepstakes, which ran from March 7 to April 17, offered a randomly-drawn winner a choice between a brand-new Volkswagen Beetle or a $15,000 cash prize. Lauron picked the cash, and she was presented with a check for the full grand prize amount on July 2 at the Travis Exchange.

“I was speechless,” said Lauron, a retired Navy spouse of 22 years. “I actually had to call them back after they notified me because I didn’t believe it at first. I’m very thankful to the Exchange and Lindt Chocolate.”

The Exchange holds dozens of sweepstakes per year in addition to offering tax-free shopping and free shipping for online orders. For the latest on Exchange sweepstakes, call or visit your local Exchange.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint non-appropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

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

DALLAS – Military shoppers can keep time with Hello Kitty thanks to the latest sweepstakes from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. Twenty-five winners will take home a Hello Kitty watch, valued at $85.

From July 25 to Aug. 22, Exchange shoppers can enter to win by emailing [email protected] and putting “Hello Kitty Sweepstakes” in the subject line. The body of the email must include the contestant’s name, address, nearest Exchange, daytime phone number and rank or occupation of sponsor.

“There’s no better time to enter this sweepstakes,” said Exchange Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “Winning is as simple as sending an email.”

Exchange shoppers can visit www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily for complete contest rules. Winners will be selected on or about Sept. 1.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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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 – With the first bell about to ring on a new school year, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is giving lessons in savings.

The Exchange is helping military shoppers make the grade with competitive prices and tax savings on supplies students need to head back to class as well as special events and savings opportunities for the whole family.

As several states roll out “sales tax holidays” on school supplies, the Exchange will match local sales tax discounts to offer an additional percentage off (equivalent to the local sales tax rate) select back-to-school items, effectively doubling the Exchange’s everyday tax-free benefit. The sales tax holidays start in Mississippi on July 25 and continue in 15 states on various dates through Aug. 10. Shoppers can check with their state’s tax website for sales tax holiday dates and included items.

“Every day is a sales tax holiday at the Exchange,” said Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson, the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor. “By shopping for back-to-school supplies during state sales tax holidays, the Exchange benefit becomes even more valuable.”

In addition to extra tax savings, from July 25 to Aug. 7, military shoppers can receive 0 percent interest and payments for six months on purchases of $199 or more when using a MILITARY STAR^® card. Unlike other retailers, no interest will accrue even if the balance isn’t paid in full before January 2015.*

On Aug. 9, select Exchange locations will host a special back-to-school event in their malls as part of the yearlong Homeward Bound campaign. The event will include product samples, giveaways and more.

“The Exchange is here for every member of the military family,” Pearson said. “Saving on supplies helps get the school year off to a successful start.” 

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

*MILITARY STAR® Promotions subject to credit approval. Standard account terms apply to non-promotional purchases and, after promotion ends, to promotional purchases:  As of July 1, 2014, a variable 10.24% APR applies to Retail Plan Purchases; and variable 18.24% APR applies to accounts subject to Penalty APR. Minimum Interest Charge:  50¢. See Exchange Credit Program Agreement for more details.

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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].

Exchange Celebrates 119 Years With 5% MILITARY STAR^® Card Discount

DALLAS – On July 25, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service marks a historic milestone, celebrating 119 years of serving Soldiers, Airmen and their families.

On July 25, 1895, General Order No. 46 established the exchange on military installations, directing post commanders to set up an exchange at every post. Since then, the Exchange has supported U.S. troops in 14 major contingencies, starting with the Spanish-American War and most recently with Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.  Throughout the years, the Department of Defense’s oldest retailer has brought a taste of home to the frontlines while supporting service members’ families on the home front.

In honor of the anniversary, the Exchange is planning in-store events worldwide and a special MILITARY STAR^® card promotion. Shoppers who use their MILITARY STAR^® card on July 25 will receive 5 percent off their in-store purchase.

The MILITARY STAR^® card 5 percent discount is not applicable to fuel, tobacco, uniforms/accessories, Exchange Protection Plans, food court or gift card purchases. The MILITARY STAR^® card everyday discounts of 10 percent off fast food and 5 cents off per gallon of gas will be applicable but cannot be combined with the 119^th anniversary 5 percent discount offer.

Military shoppers can join in as their local Exchange celebrates 119 years of family serving family. To find locations, shoppers can visit www.shopmyexchange.com/ExchangeStores/. 

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 The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com. 

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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’s Homeward Bound campaign is heating up with a variety of giveaways to celebrate the homecoming of America’s warfighters and honor those who serve. 

Military shoppers who visit the Exchange’s Facebook page at  www.facebook.com/AAFES.BX.PX can enter to win prizes throughout the month including: 

• One of six $5,000 Exchange gift cards courtesy of Burger King from July 4-31.
• Two chances to win a trip for two to Las Vegas to see the Mr. Olympia competition. Shopper can enter from July 7-14 to win a trip from Nutrex Sports Nutrition or from July 18-24 to win a package from Iovate nutritional products.
• One of 10 $750 Exchange gift cards, courtesy of GoPro from July 25-31.

 For more information about upcoming Homeward Bound promotions, shoppers can visit www.shopmyexchange.com/homewardbound. 

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 The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com. 

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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 – Everyday Americans can give troops deployed overseas a taste of home this Fourth of July with an Army & Air Force Exchange Service gift card.

Gift cards that can be redeemed through the Department of Defense’s largest exchange service can be sent to Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines deployed to Afghanistan and other contingency locations worldwide. Service members can use the cards to pick up a variety of morale-boosting items including electronics, magazines, movies, food and cold drinks.

“It’s very important for troops to have those small, but needed, reminders in their lives of loved ones back home,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “Exchange gift cards provide tangible support to those who answer the call to protect America’s freedom.”

While only authorized military shoppers can redeem Exchange gift cards, any American can send one by simply logging on to http://www.shopmyexchange.com/Community/supporttroops/.

From there, Exchange gift cards, ranging in values from $10 to $500, can be addressed to a specific Soldier, Airman, Sailor or Marine or sent to “any service member” through the Fisher House Foundation, Air Force Aid Society, Warrior and Family Support Center or Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.

The Exchange operates facilities for service members, retirees and their families in more than 30 countries, 50 states and five U.S. territories. Current operations include 131 main stores, 174 Military Clothing facilities, 72 movie theaters, 850 specialty stores and 1,590 quick serve restaurants such as Taco Bell, Popeye’s and Starbucks.

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 The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint non-appropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com. 

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 Media Notes:

 For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Conner Hammett, 214-312-4566 or [email protected].

DALLAS – America’s heroes come in all forms, from the troops fighting on the frontlines to families holding down the home front. To honor these men and women, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is teaming up with Dickies to salute the American Hero of the Year with $25,000.

All active-duty and retired U.S. military personnel and their family members are eligible to win a grand prize of $25,000 or one of four runner-up prizes of $1,000. Nominations can consist of a video less than 5 minutes, a photo and essay of up to 500 words or a standalone essay. Nominations should tell what being an American hero means to the nominee and why they are a true American hero.

 “American heroes walk among us every day, and I’m sure this contest will yield heartwarming stories of this sacrifice and service,” said Exchange Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “The $25,000 grand prize is a tribute to all service members and their families and the qualities they embody.”

 Entries will be accepted through July 17. Entrants can visit www.shopmyexchange.com/homewardbound and click on the Dickies American Hero of the Year logo to access an application.

 A panel of judges will determine the finalists, who will be named Aug. 4. Public voting at www.militaryhero.com from Aug. 4 through Sept. 6 will determine the winner.

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 The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com. 

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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, TX – Once again, the United States must rely on patriotic Super Hero Captain America and his allies to save the country from impending doom in the latest military-exclusive comic book from Marvel, available for free only at Army & Air Force Exchange Service locations worldwide.

Written by William Harms with art by Tom Grummett, “Divide and Conquer” is the 17^th military-exclusive edition from Marvel since 2005.

In the action-packed adventure, Captain America stealthily infiltrates a massive A.I.M. facility on a volcanic island near Antarctica. There he learns the evil super-genius M.O.D.O.K. plans to unleash a force of indestructible robots created from the secret metallic alloy of Captain America’s own shield. To stop this catastrophic attack, Captain America teams up with the high-flying Falcon, the quick-striking Black Widow, and two elite squads of US Army Rangers to put a stop to the threat. But can this hard-hitting dream team stop the malicious villain before it’s too late?

“If you couldn’t get enough of Cap, Falcon and Black Widow in Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, this all-new adventure is crafted just for you,” said Marvel Custom Solutions Creative Director Bill Rosemann. “Everyone at Marvel is honored to have the opportunity to create new stories just for the brave men and women in the Armed Forces, so we packed every page with all the action, drama, humor, and surprises you’ve come to expect from Marvel. And just to show you how much we want to entertain and impress you and your families, we hired legendary artist Mark Bagley to draw the cover! And don’t forget, it’s an exclusive military-only edition…talk about an instant collector’s item!”

“The Exchange always looks forward to partnering with Marvel to bring exclusive comics to military shoppers,” said Col. Tom Ockenfels, Exchange Chief of Staff. “As always, the free comics are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to pick one up sooner rather than later.”

One million issues of Marvel’s “Divide and Conquer” were distributed to Exchange locations worldwide. Shoppers can contact their local Exchange for more information by visiting www.shopmyexchange.com/ExchangeStores.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

About Marvel Entertainment

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years.  Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing.  For more information visit marvel.com.  © MARVEL

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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 – Summer is about to get sweeter as the Army & Air Force Exchange Service teams up with Welch’s/Sour Jacks to offer two military shoppers a chance to drive home a brand-new Smart car.

Through July 31, shoppers can enter the Promotion in Motion Smart Car Giveaway at Exchange locations worldwide for the chance to win one of two Smart cars, each valued at $15,000.

“It’s smart to enter this sweepstakes for a chance at a brand-new car,” said Exchange Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “Military shoppers can stop by their nearest Exchange to fill out an entry form. It’s that easy.”

Authorized shoppers 18 years and older can enter the Promotion in Motion Smart Car Giveaway. No purchase is necessary, and the drawing will take place on or about Aug. 29.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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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 announced that it has been selected a Best for Vets employer for 2014 by Military Times. The military publication recognized the Exchange for its commitment to providing job opportunities to veterans, naming it No. 31 among the top 59 employers for veterans. This marks the first time the Exchange has received this recognition.

“Veterans working at the Exchange is a natural fit,” said Exchange Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “The Exchange is family serving family, and veterans will always a have place in our ranks.”

Veterans make up 10 percent of the Exchange’s workforce of about 38,000. In 2013, the Exchange hired 1,112 veterans.

To learn about job opportunities, veterans are encouraged to visit www.applymyexchange.com, where they can search for jobs by location. The site also includes a list of job fairs the Exchange will attend through the year, so veterans can meet with an Exchange representative in person.  

When conducting the fifth-annual Best for Vets: Employers survey, Military Times focused on culture and policies that cater to military veterans. The survey is made up of nearly 90 questions about a company’s efforts to connect with veterans and provide an environment for success.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint nonappropriated fund instrumentality of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff.  The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with quality merchandise and services at competitively low prices and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military morale, welfare and recreation programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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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].