Army & Air Force Exchange Service Celebrates 120 Years
DALLAS – For the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, 120 years of support to Soldiers and Airmen calls for a party.
About 2,000 Exchange associates gathered on the lawn of the Exchange’s Dallas headquarters July 23 to celebrate 12 decades of service to Soldiers, Airmen, retirees and military families. Cake and a picnic with Subway sandwiches, prepared by Exchange senior leaders, rounded out the festivities.
“We are here celebrating 120 years because of your steadfast dedication,” Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull told associates. “Inspired by a love of country, you go where they go. 120 years after our founding, we remain family serving family.”
On July 25, 1895, the War Department issued General Orders 46 directing commanders to establish an exchange at every post. Since then, exchanges have faithfully served alongside service members wherever they are called to serve.
Today, when military members deploy to remote locations around the world, the Exchange is with them, offering products and services to bring troops a taste of home. Since 9/11, more than 4,400 Exchange associates have deployed.
“We’ve gone where they’ve gone, and you better believe we’re going where they’re going,” Shull said. “Here’s to another 120 years of serving those who serve.”
— 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].