Exchange shopping dividends improve programs Published Aug. 10, 2010 By Army and Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The exchange benefit here is paying dividends in more ways than one. Airmen shopping at the base exchange, dining at Anthony's, Burger King and using other Army and Air Force Exchange Service activities last year generated a dividend of $348,839. These funds are critical to Air Force Service's ability to enhance local programs and facilities including the Thede Bowling Alley, Mathis Fitness Center and China Beach Pool. "AAFES' dual mission is to provide goods and services at competitively low prices and generate earnings to support morale, welfare and recreational programs," said Pat Tinker, Goodfellow BX general manager. "As a result, the dollars that troops and their families spend in AAFES facilities generates a healthy return on their investment by directly improving quality-of-life services." The dual benefit AAFES provides to military families goes far beyond the clothes, electronics or consumables available at the exchange. In fact, purchases made in the last 10 years have provided more than $2.4 billion to military morale, welfare and recreational programs such as youth services, wing functions and swimming pools. Historically, about two-thirds of AAFES earnings are paid to morale, welfare and recreational programs. In addition to funding quality of life efforts, AAFES earnings are used to build new stores or renovate existing ones without any expense to the government. Funds to contract these new or replacement facilities also come entirely from sales of merchandise and services.
