One in a series honoring the Exchange’s 130 years of family serving family
Who he is: Paul Guidroz, Keesler Air Force Base Exchange laborer
Years at the Exchange: 40
What brought him to the Exchange: Guidroz’s Exchange career began at Keesler when he was just 18. What was supposed to be a two‑week job helping build shelving quickly turned into something more. Guidroz says that he didn’t see himself working at the Exchange as a teen, but his leaders noticed his strong work ethic and brought him on full time, a position he has proudly held ever since.
Although he has remained in the same role, he says he never tires of the work because he enjoys helping others. “I just like working here,” Guidroz said. “I was always told the Exchange is like one big, happy family, and I’ve always tried to incorporate that into what I do.”
Military connections: Guidroz is no stranger to military life — he grew up a military brat. His father served 20 years in the Air Force, and he has an aunt who served in the Army, another aunt in the Marine Corps and an uncle in the Navy. The Rapid City-born associate proudly mentioned that he has lived in Biloxi three times as a result of his father’s service and his work for the Exchange, so when he was asked where he is from, in true military brat fashion, he smiled and said, “I’m from all over.”
Exchange through the years: One of Guidroz’s fondest memories from his early days at the Exchange is the cashier’s cage. He recalled how service members would line up to cash their paychecks, filling the building with energy. He chuckled as he said he misses those days and the lively atmosphere the cage created.
Family Serving Family: “It’s giving the best customer service to our active-duty troops. Serving the Exchange family as well those who shop in-store, too.”
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