DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is teaming up with Ford Gum, maker of Big League Chew, to take one lucky winner out to the ballgame to root, root, root for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.

The worldwide Ford Gum Sweepstakes’ prize, worth $5,000, includes airfare for four to Chicago (trip must originate in the contiguous United States), lodging for three nights, hotel transportation, four tickets to a Cubs game and spending money. Authorized military shoppers 18 and older can enter online at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes from April 1 through June 16.

“This prize is a home run for military families looking to spend time together this baseball season,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “Nothing beats enjoying our national pastime at a legendary ballpark. And all it takes is a couple of clicks online to enter and win.”

The Ford Gum sweepstakes drawing will take place on or about June 23. No purchase is necessary to enter or win.

— 30 —

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.

###

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is celebrating the Month of the Military Child in April by kicking off its first Because of You sweepstakes for 2016, giving authorized shoppers a chance at $10,000 in gift cards.

With the worldwide $10K Shopping Spree Giveaway, one grand-prize winner will take home a $5,000 Exchange gift card. Five runners-up will each win $1,000 gift cards. The Exchange is teaming up with Oberto to offer the prizes.

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.

“April, being the Month of the Military Child, is the perfect time to unveil the Exchange’s yearlong campaign to celebrate military families,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor. “Military families—especially children—face unique challenges. It’s a privilege to recognize the dedication of these families along with the sacrifices of active-duty service members.”

Authorized shoppers 18 and older can enter the $10K Shopping Spree Giveaway online from April 1-30 at www.shopmyexchange.com/becauseofyou. Winners will be chosen at random and notified no later than May. 19. No purchase is necessary to enter or win.

— 30 —

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.

###

DALLAS – With the weather warming up to ideal outdoor activity temperatures this spring, many Soldiers and Airmen are taking to motorcycles as their recreational activity of choice.

But riding a motorcycle isn’t without its dangers: According to a 2015 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,668 fatal motorcycle crashes on United States roads in 2013.

That’s why, as a partner in readiness, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service provides service members with a wide selection of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which could make the difference between life and death when riding on two wheels.

“Getting on a motorcycle without protective equipment isn’t just risking a little road rash – it could mean loss of life or limb,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “The Exchange carries a full range of gloves, jackets and visibility gear to make sure those who protect our nation’s freedoms – and their families – are covered each time they get on a motorcycle.”

Exchange PPE includes the latest motorcycle gear and an assortment of reflective products designed to increase survival and prevent injuries. Motorcyclists can browse the Exchange’s PPE selection in store or online at www.shopmyexchange.com.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – For military students, making multiple moves with their active-duty parents is just a part of life. In fact, military children typically move six to nine times by the time they’ve completed 12^th grade, according to the Military Child Education Coalition.

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service appreciates the sacrifices military students make and is rewarding young scholars who excel in the classroom with its You Made the Grade program, now in its 16^th year. Students in first through 12^th grades who maintain a B average or better are eligible to receive a coupon book filled with free offers and discounts from the Exchange. 

“Military students face greater challenges than their civilian counterparts, including coping with separation from parents who are deployed and switching schools during moves to new duty stations,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “These students deserve to be rewarded for their hard work, and for 16 years, the You Made the Grade program has been a favorite among military families.”

The You Made the Grade booklet includes coupons for free food such as a Burrito Supreme or Taco Supreme from Taco Bell; a small chicken Philly sandwich at Charleys; a Chicken Po’Boy at Popeyes; and a bacon double cheeseburger and small fry from Burger King. 

Students who make the grade will also score Snack Avenue coupons for a free fountain drink, including the Yeti frozen carbonated beverage, and a complimentary hot dog or roller grill item. Other offers include discounts on backpacks, shoes and more. Offers are valid through July 30. 

The booklet also includes an entry form for  the You Made the Grade semiannual sweepstakes. Scholars can enter to win Exchange gift cards worth $2,000, $1,500 or $500. Entries can be submitted twice a year, with drawings typically held in June and December. The most recent sweepstakes winners were students from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio; Camp Casey, South Korea; and Joint Base Andrews, Md. 

Students, including those who are home schooled, can receive a You Made the Grade coupon booklet by presenting a valid military I.D. and proof of an overall B average at their nearest Exchange customer service area. Eligible students can pick up one booklet for each qualifying report card. 

Students and guardians can check with their local Exchange store manager for more information about the Exchange’s You Made the Grade program.

Students can send You Made the Grade sweepstakes entry forms, which are included in the coupon booklets, to:

You Made the Grade

PO Box 227398

Dallas, TX 75222-7398

— 30 —

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.

###

 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 has been named a ‘Best for Vets’ employer for the third straight year by Military Times.

The designation recognizes the Exchange as having a company culture and policies that cater to military veterans. The Exchange was also named a Best for Vets employer in 2014 and 2015.

“We value the talent, skillset and unique perspectives veterans bring to the Exchange and this award reaffirms our commitment to our core value of ‘family serving family,’” said Leigh Roop, executive vice president and chief human resources officer for the Exchange. “It’s about giving back not only through providing great products and services, but to provide career opportunities to those who sacrifice so much to protect our freedoms. It’s the least we could do.”

In 2015, the Exchange made nearly 1,300 new hires of veterans. In addition, the organization employed more than 3,400 United States Armed Forces veterans last year, which comprised 10 percent of the organization’s overall workforce.

Sightline Media Group, which encompasses Military Times, Army Times, Navy Times, Air Force Times and Marine Corps Times, based the rankings on a more than 90-question analysis of a company’s efforts to connect with veterans and provide an environment for their success. The Exchange ranked No. 54 on this year’s list.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 shoppers can “think spring” with an extra discount on first-day purchases with a new MILITARY STAR card at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service.

Shoppers who use a new card for the first time from March 18 to March 24 will receive a 15 percent discount on all purchases instead of the standard 10 percent discount that is regularly offered.

The discount is valid in-store at Army and Air Force Exchange Service, Marine Corps and Coast Guard facilities and online at shopmyexchange.com and can be combined with other promotions. The discount will appear as a credit on shoppers’ billing statements.

Each time cardholders make a purchase with their MILITARY STAR card, they earn points as part of a rewards program. Cardholders earn 2 points for every $1 spent in Exchange stores, food courts, mall vendors and on shopmyexchange.com. Shoppers automatically receive a $20 Exchange rewards card for every 2,000 points earned. The card can be redeemed anywhere Exchange gift cards are accepted. 

Other benefits of the card include:

• Competitive interest rate of 10.49 percent—an industry-leading interest rate.
• No annual, late or over-limit fees.
• 10 percent off Exchange food court purchases.
• 5-cents-per-gallon savings at Exchange gas stations.
• Free standard shipping at shopyexchange.com.

To apply for a MILITARY STAR card, authorized shoppers can visit their local Exchange or log on to www.myecp.com.

 — 30 —

 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.

 ###

 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 is bringing yet another new dining experience to two Exchanges this summer.

Chipotle Mexican Grill offers tacos, burritos, salads and burrito bowls using only fresh, high-quality raw ingredients. The first Exchange location will be at Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss, the world’s first open-air shopping center on a military installation. Shortly afterward, a location will open in a 2,400-square-foot space at Fort Hood’s Clear Creek Exchange Mall.

The fast-casual restaurant joins others such as Smash Burger, Sarku and Muscle Maker Grill as examples of branded dining options available at select Exchanges across the globe.

“We want Soldiers, Airmen and their families to have similar dining options on-post as they would anywhere else,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “The addition of Chipotle brings us even closer to realizing our vision of Freedom Crossing and the Clear Creek Mall as top-tier shopping, dining and entertainment hubs that can compete with the best of what the outside has to offer.”

A targeted opening date of Aug. 4 has been set for the Freedom Crossing Chipotle, with the Clear Creek Mall location set to follow shortly afterward.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – Army & Air Force Exchange Service shoppers don’t have to be top-tier college athletes to have a shot at a slam dunk this spring.

From March 11 to April 7, authorized shoppers can enter to win a $500 Exchange gift card as part of the NCAA March Madness 2016 Unilever Sweepstakes. Thirty lucky winners will be chosen by random drawing on or about April 11.

“We know many Soldiers, Airmen and Military family members are all fired up for this year’s bracket,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “That’s why we thought we’d add a little bit of excitement to the proceedings for our military shoppers. Our customers are heroes – why not offer them a little something extra to make March Madness all the more rewarding?”

Authorized shoppers 18 and older may enter at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. No purchase is necessary.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 strives to make it easy for shoppers to exercise their benefit.

That’s why the Exchange brings exclusive offers directly to shoppers’ inboxes every week when they sign up for the Exchange Buddy List. Shoppers who sign up will be among the first to find out about exclusive savings, promotions, events and special offers at their local Exchange.

“Shoppers should not have to hunt to find information on promotions and events at their local Exchange,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “That’s why we provide a way for them to get the latest deals, direct from the source, with a minimum of fuss: just sign up on our secure website and start getting weekly updates.”

The Buddy List delivers emails about worldwide and local promotions to approximately 134,000 authorized Exchange shoppers. Customers interested in receiving these messages can sign up at their local Exchange.

— 30 —

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.

###

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 – Diamonds are forever – and for two lucky winners of the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s latest sweepstakes, forever will come free this summer.

Through June 30, shoppers can enter the Exchange Patriot Star™ Giveaway for a chance to win a 1 carat diamond solitaire ring from the Exchange’s new Patriot Star™ collection. The two winners, one stateside and one overseas, will be drawn at random. Each ring is valued at $9,299.

The Patriot Star™ is a 106-facet specialty cut diamond exclusively designed for the Exchange and certified by GemEx and the International Gemological Institute. Firestar Diamond, manufacturer and supplier of Patriot Star Jewelry, donates a portion of all Patriot Star proceeds to the Fisher House to benefit military families.

“The Exchange couldn’t be more proud to offer this exclusive piece to our military shoppers,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate, Exchange senior enlisted advisor. “Our customers make sacrifice after sacrifice to keep our nation safe – why not honor that with a diamond as unique as the heroes we serve?”

Authorized shoppers 18 and older may enter the Patriot Star™ Giveaway at www.shopmyexchange.com/sweepstakes. No purchase is necessary.

— 30 —

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.

###

Media Notes:

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