Camp Humphreys’ Main Store Manager Debra Melton’s career at the Exchange started when she took a job at Darmstadt Foodland in Germany as a cashier. More than three decades later, she is scheduled to retire in July 2023 and start a new chapter in her life.
Her initial job at the Exchange in 1991 turned into a successful and rewarding career.
“I am forever grateful for the Exchange,” Melton said. “I can honestly say that there is no other company that values their associates and customers more than the Exchange.”
Melton’s 32 years with the Exchange has given her the opportunities to work in several countries around the world while experiencing new cultures and learning new languages.
“I have been very fortunate to work and live in other countries,” Melton said. “The Exchange is where you form lasting bonds that become roots to your ‘Exchange family tree’; which you can’t get working for a different company.”
Melton used her deployment to Afghanistan to enhance her relationship with her eldest son, Staff Sgt. David Melton, helicopter crew chief, who was deployed to the same location.
“We got to experience things together that most will never experience in their lifetime,” Melton said. “Deploying with my son was great and I was as proud of a mom then as I am today of him.”
In August 2016, she took the task of being the main store manager at Yongsan, knowing that the relocation to Camp Humphreys was in full swing. By November 2017, the grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony took place with Exchange leadership, U.S. Forces Korea commands and other distinguished guests.
“Debra has been a valuable member of our Exchange family especially during the move from Yongsan to Camp Humphreys,” said Humphreys Exchange General Manager Vanessa Rowland. “We will definitely miss the professionalism and leadership that she provided to the Humphreys military community.”
Melton will be the last of the original group that helped set up the newest Exchange in the Pacific Region that is the third-largest Exchange in the world.
“The grand opening was phenomenal! We accomplished what many said could not be done in such a short time through our sheer determination to take care of the Soldiers and their families,” Melton said. “I had never experienced such an adrenaline rush as I did at the grand opening…it seems like yesterday!”
Melton credits her professionalism and work ethic to her three years on active duty in the Army, as a Pershing missile crew member.
“The Army instilled in me that a Soldier never quits,” Melton said. “When you make a commitment, you see it through. That’s what I do.”
With no more commitments to the Army or the Exchange, Melton plans to commit to her family and move to San Antonio, Texas, and spend time with her grandson, 6, and granddaughter, 1.
“Family over everything, that’s what’s most important to me right now,” Melton said. “After the initial six months or so, I’m sure I’ll get bored and have to find something worthwhile to do.”
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