Fort Rucker Exchange Celebrates $13.5 Million Renovation

FORT RUCKER – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service debuted a new look at Fort Rucker Exchange. The shopping center’s $13.5 million renovation brings modern convenience to more than 39,000 military shoppers.

Fort Rucker Garrison Commander Col. Robert Holcombe and Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Doss joined Exchange leaders including Chief Administrative Officer Tom Lozier, Central Region Senior Vice President Jesse Martinez, Real Estate Vice President Michael Smietana, Central Area Regional Vice President Beth Goodman-Bluhm and General Manager Brenda Hyland cut the ribbon Dec. 1 on the renovated PX.

“This modern store demonstrates the Exchange’s dedication to Fort Rucker, the people who live and work here, and the retirees and Veterans in the area as well,” Col. Holcombe said.

Cutting the ribbon on the Fort Rucker Exchange’s $13.5 million renovation Dec. 1 are, from left, Exchange Central Region Senior Vice President Jesse Martinez, Garrison Commander Col. Robert Holcombe, Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Doss, Exchange General Manager Brenda Hyland, Chief Administrative Officer Tom Lozier and Real Estate Vice President Michael Smietana. (Photo by Fort Rucker Exchange Visual Merchandiser Sue Antonello.)

The Exchange’s Corporate Communication and Brand Marketing team streamed the ribbon-cutting on Facebook Live, capturing the reactions of Col. Holcombe and Exchange leaders. Click here to watch the video.

The upgraded food court includes the addition of Qdoba Mexican Eats and Starbucks as well as image upgrades to Subway, Popeyes and Charleys. In the PX, shoppers will find American Eagle, Aerie, Old Navy and other national brands. A BE FIT concept shop offering health and wellness products was added to the main store and the PowerZone section also received enhancements.

Other improvements to the shopping experience include new concrete flooring, lighting, ceiling tiles, wood trim, paint and fixtures throughout the complex, an upgraded HVAC system and renovated restrooms.

Military shoppers at Fort Rucker lined up to receive goodie bags, participate in door prize games and get a slice of cake in celebration of the grand reopening.

Rosaura Nino, wife of Warrant Officer Wolfgang Nino who is attending flight school at Fort Rucker, was one of the first shoppers in attendance to celebrate the grand reopening. “The project really came together, and it looks so nice,” Nino said. “This is my first time back in the store since construction finished, so I’m going to check out the holiday deals!”

The Exchange started the project in November 2020. Construction was completed in phases over two years. The project was funded by the Exchange, with the garrison supporting with $4.9 million.

“Today, we usher in a new era of service and support for the military community here at Fort Rucker and in Southeast Alabama,” Hyland said. “Today’s celebration demonstrates the Exchange’s continued commitment to serving those who serve.