DALLAS – In the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Quality Assurance testing facility, it is not uncommon to see a flicker of light through the blinds or to experience the faint smell of burning plastic seeping up from under the closed doors. Although the unsuspecting may assume there is an emergency, it’s business as usual at the Exchange as inspectors are ensuring product quality and safety standards.    

Military shoppers expect the products they purchase to meet high standards for safety and quality. The Exchange takes steps beyond federal regulations to ensure customers can be confident that the diamond engagement ring is genuine, the baby’s crib is secure and kids’ toys are safe.

The Exchange is on the customer’s side when it comes to product quality and 19 associates with trained eyes make up the QA team including two Gemology Institute of America alums who ensure the value, authenticity and quality of the Exchange’s jewelry selection. While QA inspections are primarily visual, many products are also checked for functionality to examine if products are fit for sale and use.

The Exchange also conducts product testing or evaluations based on customer complaints and concerns. Select samples are also tested from outside labs to ensure the consistency and integrity of vendor or manufacturer’s test results.

“There is nothing more important than ensuring all of the products we carry are safe for our Soldiers, Airmen and families,” said the Exchange’s Deputy Director Maj. Gen. Joseph Ward. “Whether it’s a car seat for children, pieces of tactical gear or a household cleaning product, Exchange inspectors carefully test merchandise before it goes on our store shelves. As we say in the Air Force, ‘test before flight!’” 

From the lab at the Exchange’s headquarters to its distribution centers, a team of inspectors, veterinarians and gemologists bring safe and reliable products to every member of the military family.

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Staff Sgt. Mark Matthews, 214-312-4273 or [email protected].

DALLAS – The Army & Exchange Service is warning military shoppers about scammers posing as service members offering to broker the sale of used boats, cars and motorcycles through the Exchange.  

In one recent case, a scammer, who posed as a Soldier, tried to defraud a man in Tennessee out of $2,500 for the sale of a used boat, saying that the Exchange would ship the boat once payment was made. Fortunately, the would-be buyer contacted the Fort Campbell Exchange and was advised that any ads related to used-vehicle sales are fraudulent as the Exchange does not have authority to sell vehicles in the continental United States.

“I’m glad this individual contacted us prior to wiring any funds because it has been our experience that once money is sent, no vehicle is received and the ‘seller’ is nowhere to be found,” said Rick Koloski, the Exchange’s Loss Prevention vice president.

“In the past, we’ve been aware of cases where these scammers have used the Exchange trademarked logo and name to purportedly sell used motorcycles and cars in the United States,” Koloski said. “Now, they have branched out into boats. We have received a steady flow of calls from people who have been wrongly informed they are waiting on a motor vehicle from the Exchange.”

The Exchange is authorized to sell new cars and motorcycles, but only overseas. Exchange facilities are located solely on military installations. While the Exchange does have mail order and Internet offerings, the Exchange does not advertise in civilian outlets such as metropolitan newspapers or automobile sales magazines. All advertisements for legitimate Exchange offerings are published in outlets whose audiences mostly comprise military members.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – April showers are bringing much more than flowers as the Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers a wide variety of giveaways as part of its Homeward Bound campaign, celebrating the homecoming of America’s warfighters and honoring those who serve.

From April 4-11, authorized shoppers can enter the BOSE stereo gift card giveaway for a chance to win one of 20 Exchange gift cards valued at $500. Additionally, three military shoppers will win one year’s worth of free haircuts – a $480 value.

Then, from April 11-17, one lucky winner will take home a $5,000 Exchange gift card courtesy of XBOX. From April 18-30, shoppers can enter to win a 173-bottle wine refrigerator and a dinner party for ten with David Mirassou, a 6^th generation wine maker. Three runners-up will receive a 28-bottle capacity platinum wine cooler.

Finally, from April 25-May 1, a Waterford Crystal Eagle valued at approximately $300 will be given away.

“With nearly $20,000 in giveaways in April alone, military shoppers should get to their nearest Exchange to enter for a shot at the winnings,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels.

More information about Homeward Bound, including additional upcoming promotions, can be found at www.shopmyexchange.com/homewardbound.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service wants to fill shoppers’ baskets with $3,000 in Exchange gift cards just in time for Easter with its latest contest sponsored by Hershey, Mars and Wrigley.

The Hunt Is On contest starts at the Exchange where shoppers search for clues throughout the store. A clue map can be picked up at the store or downloaded from the Exchange’s Patriot Family Connection website at shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily. After collecting all five answers, contestants can go to the Exchange’s Facebook page to post their findings. All five correct answers must be provided to qualify for the prizes.

Four winners will receive a $500 Exchange gift card and 10 lucky winners will receive a $100 Exchange gift card. Winners will be randomly selected and notified by email.

“The Exchange wants shoppers to get hopping so they can win these prizes,” said Exchange Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “Besides the contest, the Exchange has everything needed to celebrate Easter. From candy to spring attire, we have it here to make the holiday one to remember.”

The Exchange’s Hunt Is On contest runs April 4 through April 20. No purchase is necessary to win.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – As summer draws near, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is making it easy for shoppers to reel in a wide selection of prizes with the MILITARY STAR^® Ultimate Outdoor Sweepstakes.

Between April 1 and May 1, shoppers will be automatically entered in the sweepstakes each time they use their MILITARY STAR^® card at any Exchange facility, including main stores, Expresses and Class Six locations, or on shopmyexchange.com.

One grand-prize winner will receive the Ultimate Camping Experience, valued at $2,049. The prize includes a Coleman camping package featuring an Evanston eight-person tent, two queen double-high air beds, an NXT 100 grill and a $1,500 Exchange gift card. The second-place winner will take home the Ultimate Backyard Makeover, which is worth $1,099 and includes a Courtyard Creations Brunspark patio set along with a $500 Exchange gift card.

Fifteen third-place winners will receive the Ultimate Fishing/Survival Experience, which includes a Ready 2 Fish package that comes with a rod, reel, tackle and an extra-large three-tray tackle box. A Gerber Bear Grylls paracord fixed-blade knife and a $100 Exchange gift card are also included.

“These prize packages will make it easy for the winners to spend some quality time in the great outdoors this summer,” said Exchange Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “Entering couldn’t be easier. All it takes is a swipe of a MILITARY STAR^® card.”  

Winners will be announced on or about June 16.

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

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

Dedicated Section, Featuring Disney, Marvel and Star Wars Products, Unveiled at Army Posts and Air Force Bases Globally

DALLAS – A cast of Disney, Marvel and Star Wars brands is joining forces with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service to bring special, dedicated sections to select Exchanges starting March 21. 

These standalone sections, called “Disney at the Exchange,” showcase merchandise from Disney Consumer Products, including characters from Disney Junior, DisneyŸPixar and Disney Princess, as well as Marvel and Star Wars properties. By this summer, military shoppers at 15 installations, from California to Japan, will find a wide selection of their favorite characters at the Exchange. The “Disney at the Exchange” assortment will include dolls, action figures, role play items and clothing, as well as toys and other merchandise tied to current Walt Disney Company theatrical releases and television content.

“With stores in 31 countries and all 50 states, the Exchange brings a taste of home to every member of the military family,” said Col. Tom Ockenfels, the Exchange’s chief of staff. “Bringing Disney into Exchanges is another example of our continuing desire to deliver top brands directly to military shoppers around the world.”

These new sections, with an average size of 627 square feet, have signage featuring Disney, Marvel and Star Wars logos and beloved character imagery throughout.

“The Walt Disney Company is proud to support the U.S. Armed Services, and it is an honor to bring the magic of Disney, Marvel and Star Wars characters and their cherished stories to service men, women and families around the world through this collaboration,” said Josh Silverman, executive vice president of global licensing, Disney Consumer Products.

The Exchange will open “Disney at the Exchange” at 11 locations in the continental United States on March 21. Locations include:

• Fort Campbell, Ky.
• Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
• Fort Hood, Texas
• Fort Benning, Ga.
• Fort Bragg, N.C.
• Fort Belvoir, Va.
• Travis Air Force Base, Calif.
• Fort Carson, Colo.
• Fort Bliss, Texas
• Both main stores at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

Overseas locations are scheduled to open in May at Kaiserslautern Military Community Center and Grafenwoehr in Germany; Kadena Air Base, Japan; and Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

In addition to the opening of “Disney at the Exchange,” the Exchange and The Walt Disney Company are bringing advanced screenings of Marvel’s “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” to select theaters for military families on March 29. The movie will open in civilian theaters on April 4.

“Disney was proud to be the first Studio to bring first-run movies to the Exchange’s continental U.S. base theaters last August with Planes,” said Dave Hollis, executive vice president of theatrical distribution at The Walt Disney Studios. “ ‘Disney at The Exchange’ is an exciting continuation of that relationship. We are honored to work with an organization whose mission it is to serve our dedicated military members and their families.”

Supporting the U.S. Armed Forces has long been a Disney tradition. In 2012, Disney introduced Heroes Work Here—a companywide initiative to hire, train and support military veterans as well as encourage employers across the U.S. to hire former military service members. Disney has already exceeded its goal to hire 2,000 veterans, with 3,200 former service members joining Disney since the program began.

 –30–

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.

 ###

 Media Notes:

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

MEDIA CONTACT: SSG Matthews
MEDIA ADVISORY: 14-020
RELEASE DATE: March 12, 2014

DALLAS – As March Madness approaches and the journey to the Final Four begins, Army and Air Force Exchange Service shoppers have a chance to win big with the Unilever Sweepstakes. 

Now through April 7, the Exchange is offering shoppers worldwide the opportunity to enter the Unilever Sweepstakes to win one of six $2,500 Exchange gift cards to use towards the purchase of a big screen TV.

“This is a great opportunity for families to score that big screen television they’ve been eyeing,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “Now they have the chance to catch all of the excitement of their favorite sports events.”

To enter, shoppers can simply visit their local Exchange, locate the Unilever Sweepstakes display and fill out an entry form. Entrants must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license.

Six winners of the Unilever Sweepstakes will be notified on or about May 5. No purchase is necessary and there is a limit of one entry per family.

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact SSG Mark Matthews at [email protected] or 214-312-4273.

MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Mitchell
MEDIA ADVISORY: 14-019
RELEASE DATE: March 7, 2014

DALLAS –Military shoppers at the Fort Knox Exchange are enjoying a modern shopping experience thanks to a $3.5 million renovation, the Exchange’s first full remodel in 20 years.

The 115,000-square-foot Exchange, which took seven months to update, boasts three separate merchandise areas—Home, Life and Style—to appeal to military shoppers’ active lifestyle.

“You can expect to see anything here that you’ll find in any department store,” said Col. Thomas Edwards, the Fort Knox Garrison commander. “Each day, the Fort Knox team works to make improvements here for your benefit and the community’s benefit as a whole. The Exchange is proof of this commitment.”

The Exchange’s makeover includes updated shopping sections, such as Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret. In the mall, three separate concession areas have been consolidated to accommodate more name-brand concessions, including Patriot Outfitters, which sells military tactical gear. 

“We brought in a lot more brands, like Michael Kors, which is very popular,” said Fort Knox Exchange General Manager Rick Fair. The firearms and PowerZone sections were expanded too, he said.

So far, the face-lift is a win for Exchange shoppers.

“I found the new layout to be a great improvement,” said retired Lt. Col. Dale Davis. “The organization of the products is sensible and presents a professional image.”

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

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

MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Mitchell
MEDIA ADVISORY: 14-018
RELEASE DATE: March 5, 2014

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Lindt Chocolates are teaming up to treat one lucky shopper to a sweet ride—a brand-new Volkswagen Jetta.

Military shoppers can enter the Lindt Chocolates Sweepstakes at Army and Air Force Exchanges worldwide from March 7 to April 17 for the chance to drive off with a Volkswagen Jetta, valued at $15,000, or the winner can choose to take home $15,000 in cash instead. 

“With this sweepstakes, the Exchange is putting a lucky winner in the driver’s seat,” said Col. Tom Ockenfels, the Exchange chief of staff. “What’s more, the winner will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with owning a brand-new car.”

Authorized shoppers 18 years and older with a valid driver’s license can enter the sweepstakes, and no purchase is necessary. The drawing will take place on or about May 15.

— 30 —

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 nonappropriated 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.

###

Media Notes:

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

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 14-017
RELEASE DATE: March 4, 2014

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is offering a springtime shower of March giveaways as part of its Homeward Bound campaign, celebrating the homecoming of America’s warfighters and honoring those who serve.

First, to kick off the month, from March 7-31, authorized shoppers can enter the Beats by Dre gift card giveaway for a chance to win one of 20 Exchange gift cards valued at $500. Then, from March 21-April 3, the Exchange will offer three lucky patrons a $100 gift card for Stylique salon services. Finally, from March 28-April 3, shoppers can enter to win a $5,000 Exchange gift card from Armored Auto Group.

“March means springtime and the Exchange has great contests and giveaways sprouting up all over,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “And getting the opportunity to win is as simple as heading to the nearest Exchange and registering.”

More information about Homeward Bound, including additional upcoming promotions, can be found at www.shopmyexchange.com/homewardbound.

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

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