Mobile Exchange Serves Future Soldiers at Fort Knox
FORT KNOX – In the middle of a parking lot on a hot summer day in Kentucky, prospective officers take a break from their training to browse the selection at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s Mobile Field Exchange (MFE). Set up in support of the Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, the Exchange MFE provides goods for the Cadre and Cadets in training.
MFEs are specially configured semitrailers furnished with retail merchandise, supplies and equipment often used to support contingency operations as well as disaster relief efforts. The assortment ranges from snacks and drinks to toiletries and batteries. The Fort Knox MFE is supporting about 5,000 Cadets during their training.
With the nearest permanent Exchange location nearly three miles away from the training grounds, the MFE provides a convenient location for trainees and trainers alike to buy basic necessities as well as grab a snack or drink.
Spc. William Salisbury, who is helping to coordinate the Cadet training, said the addition of the MFE boosted the morale of everyone involved.
“It wouldn’t be bad if we had our vehicles, but the nearest Exchange is a good walk away from here,” Salisbury said. “Before they had that mobile Exchange open, it was kind of a pain to go the Exchange, and now it’s only 50 feet away from me.”
Open since May 9, the MFE is located in the middle of the barracks to allow easy access for the Cadets and Cadre. The MFE is open from noon to 8 p.m. and will remain at Fort Knox until mid-August.
“Our goal is always to make life a little easier for our service members,” said Fort Knox Exchange General Manager Steve Ard. “As a new class of officers undergoes training out there, we’re right here to provide the Cadets and Cadre a little comfort and convenience.”
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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.
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Media Notes:
For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Amanda Hargett-Granato, 214-312-6048 or [email protected].