MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-030
RELEASE DATE: May 24, 2013

DALLAS – From PSCing to retirements to promotions, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service understands the importance of celebrating life’s milestones to the military community. With this is mind, the Exchange is working to provide seamless access to greeting card services as it transitions to a line of offerings exclusively from American Greetings.

“With more than ten million cards sold at Exchange operations last year, we know there is a sustained demand among military members for the products,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Public Affairs LTC Thomas Shrader. “We are focused on transitioning services in a way that ensures all stores remain open and fully stocked.”

The Exchange operated approximately 125 Hallmark stores on 71 installations. Store conversions to American Greetings have already begun in the continental United States with overseas locations slated for June. The transition is estimated to be complete by the end of July.

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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].

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-029
RELEASE DATE: May 23, 2013

DALLAS – Foster Grant is partnering with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service to offer military shoppers in the Continental United States an opportunity to win a trip for two to the Ironman Triathlon World Championship Oct. 12-13 in Hawaii. The winner will receive airfare, transportation and expenses for the trip. The approximate retail value of the prize package is $2,800.

“Enter early and often,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “The competition for this contest is sure to be as fierce as the actual event.”

From May 24-June 30, authorized shoppers 18 years and older can run, bike or swim to their nearest participating Exchange for a chance to win the Ironman sweepstakes, which will be awarded on or about July 12. No purchase is necessary to enter. 

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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].

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-027
RELEASE DATE: May 17, 2013

DALLAS – Military members transitioning to civilian life can make a business statement from head-to-toe with the Exchange’s support of the Army Career & Alumni Program/Transition Assistance Program (ACAP/TAP).

As a means of serving those who serve, top trendsetters such as Billy London®, Van Heusen®, and Haggar® are partnering with the Exchange to provide the latest in business fashion.

“Switching from military service to the civilian workforce can be a dramatic change, especially for longtime servicemembers,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels. “The Exchange is ready to assist with quality attire that will help Soldiers and Airmen make a good first impression and succeed in the business environment.”

Authorized Exchange shoppers can pick up a free copy of “Welcome Home: A Military Man’s Guide to Style” at their nearest main store where weekly sales fliers are located. For more information regarding the ACAP/TAP, shoppers can speak with a Store Manager. Exchange locations and contact information are available through the “Exchange Stores” section at www.shopmyexchange.com.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command 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 articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) 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]. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-026
RELEASE DATE: May 14, 2013

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service knows that safety is no accident; that’s why the Exchange is committed to providing a wide selection of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which could make the difference between life and death for military motorcyclists.

According to Army and Air Force safety centers, 65 Soldiers and Airmen lost their lives in motorcycle accidents in fiscal year 2012.

“Riding with the right safety equipment is extremely important,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “That’s why our motorcycle safety gear consists of sturdy helmets, gloves, vests and more, all designed to increase visibility and help protect riders.”

The Exchange PPE includes high-quality motorcycle gear and an assortment of reflective products. Safety gear along with skills learned in motorcycle safety training classes combine to increase survival and prevent injuries.

Motorcycle riders can browse the Exchange’s PPE selection in store or online at www.shopmyexchange.com.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command 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 articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) 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, 214-312-2174 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-025
RELEASE DATE: May 7, 2013

DALLAS – Diners can spend a little more on Mom by dining and saving at an Army & Air Force Exchange Service restaurant this Mother’s Day as food orders made with a MILITARY STAR® Card on May 12 will be discounted 20 percent.

“According to retail estimates, the average shopper will spend more than $150 on Mother’s Day,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “The Exchange is offering an opportunity to shave a little bit off the bottom line, and, instead of the usual 10 percent off diners enjoy every day when using their MILITARY STAR® Card, for this special day those savings will be doubled.”

In addition to getting more for less at the food court, MILITARY STAR® Card holders receive exclusive savings at the pump with a five cents a gallon discount every time they fuel up at Army and Air Force gas stations. In addition to the everyday savings, steeper discounts are offered periodically throughout the year.

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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]. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Amy Hall
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-024
RELEASE DATE: May 7, 2013

DALLAS – Servicemembers can add some sizzle to the summer with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s free summer shopping guide featuring the hottest trends in fashion and furnishings with irresistible value.

This season’s 36-page guide, arriving at Exchange stores May 15, offers a variety of brand name merchandise ranging from Michael Kors^® watches and Samsung^® electronics to KitchenAid^® appliances and Tempur-Pedic^® mattresses.

“Shoppers can dive into summer fun with the swimwear selection or gear-up for outdoor camping adventures while enjoying tax-free savings,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “Not to mention, the Exchange provides free standard shipping with use of a MILITARY STAR^® card or on orders of $49 and above.”

Prices in this all-services guide are valid through June 30, 2013, for all authorized Exchange customers. Active duty military members of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as military retirees, reservists, National Guardsmen, Department of Defense civilians stationed overseas, Exchange employees and their family members are all authorized Exchange privileges.

Orders can be placed by mail, fax or phone. Toll-free orders can be placed from the United States, Puerto Rico or Guam at 800-527-2345. The Exchange customer service center is open around the clock, seven days a week. Complimentary international access calling is also available from several countries. Those numbers are:

    Germany                 0800-82-16500

    Japan/Okinawa        00531-11-4132

    Korea                      00308-13-0664

    Italy                         8008-71227

    Belgium                   0800-7-2432

    The Netherlands      0800-022-1889

    United Kingdom     0800-96-8101

    Spain                       900-971-391

    Turkey*                  00800-18-488-6312

* Calls cannot be placed from phones on base. Use off-base commercial lines.

Authorized customers can also shop the 2013 Summer Shopping Guide online at shopmyexchange.com.

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Military exchanges have the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and of generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs. To find out more about the military exchanges’ history and missions or to view recent press releases please visit shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Amy Hall, 214-312-2132 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-023
RELEASE DATE: May 2, 2013

DALLAS – Military shoppers clipped out and cashed in more than $1.5 million in coupons and promotions last year at Army and Air Force Exchanges worldwide.

Exchange shoppers literally “cleaned up” on one of the most successful promotions – a $2 off coupon for Tide, Gain or Cheer detergents.

“More than 66,000 shoppers took advantage of that one offer,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “As a result, Exchange shoppers saved more than $132,000 from just that promotion.”

In 2013, the Exchange is providing a variety of exclusive savings through the mail and online. Exchange shoppers in the continental United States can text Exchange to 95613 for additional savings delivered to their mobile devices.

Shoppers who “like” the Exchange on www.facebook.com/aafes.bx.px enjoy coupon offers, participate in exciting contests and join an online community of current and former military members.

Customers can also log on to www.shopmyexchange.com and check the Savings Center to see what “Super Daily Specials,” “Weekly Promotions” and “Advertised Specials” are available. 

Complete details concerning coupon redemption, shopping and saving at the Exchange are available online at http://www.shopmyexchange.com/CustomerService/couponAcceptance.htm.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command 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 articles of merchandise and services 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]. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-022
RELEASE DATE: April 30, 2013

DALLAS – It may be a dog eat dog world, but the latest Exchange contest is focusing on the cuddlier side of these furry, feathered and sometimes finicky companions. With the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Patriot Family “Just Say Treat” contest, a pet picture and 50 words could be worth $300.

The Patriot Pet “Just Say Treat” photo/pet contest will launch May 1 online at www.shopmyexchange.com and the Exchange Facebook page. Shoppers need only to submit a photo of their pet (or pets) along with a 50-word or less description for a shot at a $300 Exchange gift card.

“Pets are a very important part of our lives,” said the Exchange’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. “They provide many of us with companionship and friendship, so it’s only fair we take this opportunity to crow and bark about our pets.”

For more information and links to enter the Patriot Pet “Just Say Treat” contest, go to shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily or visit the Exchange Facebook page at www.facebook.com/aafes.bx.px.

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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]. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Amy Hall
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-021
RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2013

DALLAS – Hard-working students deserve recognition, so the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is rewarding military students in grades 1-12 who maintain a “B” or better average with the “You Made the Grade” program.

“We love it when military students excel,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Tom Ockenfels, “so it’s natural to encourage and reward great grades.”

For the past thirteen years, this program has rewarded schoolchildren around the world with a “You Made the Grade” coupon booklet listing a multitude of free products and discounted offers. The 2013 version includes a free Burger King hamburger kids meal, Subway 6-inch combo, $2 off any new release CD or DVD at Power Zone and a complimentary haircut, among other great prizes. In addition, qualifying students can register for a drawing to win a $2,000, $1,500 or $500 Exchange gift card.

Students can receive a “You Made the Grade” booklet by simply presenting a valid military ID and proof of an overall “B” average at their local Exchange store. Those eligible may receive one coupon booklet and submit one drawing entry each qualifying report card.

Visit a nearby Exchange store to get more information about the “You Made the Grade” program. Each store’s contact information, including store hours, is available through the “Exchange Stores” link at www.shopmyexchange.com.

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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 Amy Hall, 214-312-2132 or [email protected]. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 13-020
RELEASE DATE: April 18, 2013

DALLAS – While some advertise efforts to hire veterans, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service simply does what it has for more than 117 years – extend career opportunities to veterans and their families. In fact, 10 percent of the Exchange’s workforce is comprised of veterans with military spouses and family members accounting for another 24 percent.

With more than 40,000 jobs, the Exchange is doing its part not only to employ veterans and military spouses, but also provide opportunities.

“The Exchange doesn’t just hire current and former members of the military community in jobs – we offer careers in service and support,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Thomas Ockenfels. “It’s just a natural fit. Veterans, spouses and dependents know our customers better than anyone.”

Uniting with the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and the Wounded Warrior Project, there are currently 4,196 veteran associates working for the Exchange. In 2013, the goal is to increase veteran management hires by 33 percent from 2012.

Additionally, partnerships with the Operation Warfighter (OWF) Program and Feds Hire Vets initiative give the Exchange increased visibility.

Veterans can also apply for the Exchange’s “Detail to Retail” management trainee programs, which are designed to train various levels of retail management. Upon successful completion, participants are assigned to Exchange facilities across the world in a variety of different roles, including Store Manager, Branch Store Manager, Sales Area Manager and Stockroom Manager.

Complete details on how veterans and their families can apply for a career with the Exchange are available at www.shopmyexchange.com/AboutExchange/Careers/militaryfamilies.htm.

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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.

Media Notes:

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