Fort Belvoir Associate Named 2023 MILITARY STAR Ambassador of the Year

Fort Belvoir Exchange Customer Experience Associate John Dickson was recently named the Exchange Credit Program’s 2023 MILITARY STAR_® Ambassador of the Year. Dickson was recognized for his work in supporting and communicating the benefits of the MILITARY STAR card.

“I was somewhat shocked and surprised when they told me I’d been selected as the worldwide ambassador,” Dickson said. “I feel extremely honored and grateful to receive the honor.”

In 2023, Dickson was responsible for 696, or 79%, of all new MILITARY STAR accounts opened at Fort Belvoir-Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and nearly 5% of new accounts for the entire Eastern Region.

Dickson received a Thanks award and certificate. He earned the recognition out of more than 190 ambassadors from all five Exchange regions.

Ambassadors are selected by ECP based on consistent use of best practices in sharing MILITARY STAR information with shoppers, coaching teammates on MILITARY STAR benefits, growing new cardmember accounts and more.

“Store associates play a key role in explaining the unique benefits of the MILITARY STAR card to their communities,” said Exchange Credit Program Senior Vice President Tommy Ward. “Exemplary associates like John really make a difference for the customers and the Exchange as a whole.”

Dickson engages with each shopper, explaining how the MILITARY STAR card can help them save money and build credit.

“I have been given an opportunity to provide a service to our troops, letting them know about this benefit that they might not be aware of,” he said. “I served in the Coast Guard and enjoy this opportunity to give back to the military community.”

The MILITARY STAR card offers benefits to both shoppers and the Exchange. The card generated $439 million in value for the military community last year, including from interest savings and rewards for Warfighters and their families.

“John is courteous and sincere in everything he does to support MILITARY STAR and take care of Soldiers and their families,” said Fort Belvoir Exchange General Manager Kim Neiss. “He is a terrific ambassador for the program and deserving of this honor.”