Melissa Allen, Eastern Region Services Program Specialist
One in a series spotlighting Veteran and military spouse associates, who bring unique experiences to the Exchange mission
Who she is: Melissa Allen, Eastern Region Services Program Specialist
Years with the Exchange: 17
Military connection: She’s a military spouse whose husband retired from the Air Force. Her dad also served in the Navy.
Why she joined the Exchange: After marrying her husband, Allen worked for the Exchange in the early 1990s. Allen took a break during PCS moves and returned when her husband neared retirement. “We wanted to stay connected to the military community—it’s what we knew,” Allen said. “The Exchange gave me the chance to serve, grow professionally and remain part of that world.”
She rejoined the Exchange as a visual merchandiser, later becoming a services business manager.
“I absolutely love Services. We’re the sprinkles on the sundae—the little extras like bringing comfort and familiarity to our service members.”
Most memorable Exchange moment: Allen’s favorite experience was deploying downrange for a year, serving in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan with visits to Afghanistan and United Arab Emirates.
“Being there where service members are in their element was powerful,” Allen said. “The long hours didn’t feel hard because we were united in purpose. We became each other’s surrogate family, especially around the holidays.”
Why the Exchange is ideal for Veterans and military spouses: “The Exchange is stable, global and mission-driven,” Allen said. “You can grow a career, stay connected to the military and be part of something meaningful.” Allen calls herself a self-professed Exchange nerd. “I believe in our mission, what we do and the possibilities. And with the Exchange, anything is possible.”
