In support of the 130-year-old We Go Where You Go promise, the Exchange team at Joint Base Lewis-McChord rolled out a mobile rodeo on short notice last month to serve National Guard members sent to Camp Withycombe near Portland, Oregon.
A rodeo is a smaller version of a mobile field Exchange—a store on wheels. One week after command’s request, the rodeo brought snacks, drinks and personal care items from the JBLM Exchange, which is about 2½ hours away. The National Guard camp has no permanent Exchange support.
Opening day saw a strong turnout, with nearly 70 customers. Troops were visibly elated by the arrival of the rodeo, said JBLM Exchange General Manager Asia Gilchriest.
“Bringing the mobile rodeo to Camp Withycombe was all about meeting troops where they are, quickly and effectively,” she said. “In just one week, we went from request to reality, and seeing the smiles and excitement on opening day made every effort worth it. This is what the Exchange is here for: supporting readiness and morale, no matter the location.”
The rodeo was set up just 30 feet from the Morale, Welfare and Recreation tent and 40 feet from the dining facility, both of which are part of a centralized hub that includes sleeping quarters, shower and bathroom trailers and laundry services.
As the mobile rodeo continues serving troops at Camp Withycombe, the JBLM team remains agile and responsive, adapting operations based on troop feedback and demand. Two JBLM associates run the rodeo twice a week, with scheduling adjusted to match troop presence and needs.
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