Exchange, USAG Black Sea Work Together to Enhance Soldier Support

NOVO SELO TRAINING AREA, Bulgaria — U.S. Army Garrison Black Sea and the Exchange continue to strengthen their partnership to improve Quality of Life for Soldiers stationed across Romania and Bulgaria. Operating in support of the V Corps mission in Area of Operations Victory South, the garrison delivers essential services that support readiness in one of the Army’s most operationally focused environments.

From expanded dining options to mobile retail services, the partnership ensures that Soldiers have access to critical resources while serving at forward and dispersed locations.

“Strong partnerships like the one we share with AAFES are essential to maintaining readiness and taking care of our Soldiers,” said Scott DeLay, deputy garrison commander for USAG Black Sea. “By bringing critical services directly to our Soldiers, we reduce unnecessary burdens and help them stay focused on the mission.”

In December the Exchange hosted a Military Clothing sales rodeo at Novo Selo Training Area, providing essential uniform items to Soldiers serving in a remote location.

Unlike permanent retail facilities, clothing sales rodeos are mobile, one-time events that relocate between installations, allowing Soldiers to purchase required items without traveling long distances.

The events save time, reduce logistical challenges and contribute to morale by ensuring Soldiers have what they need where they serve.

Following the success of the December event, USAG Black Sea and the Exchange plan to host clothing sales rodeos quarterly in Romania and Bulgaria.

The next rodeo is scheduled for Feb. 20–21 at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania.

“Through the outstanding support of USAG Black Sea, the Exchange continues to expand Quality-of-Life services for U.S. service members across the region,” said Balkans Exchange General  Manager Ronald McDuffie. “Command support enables us to directly contribute to troop readiness, resilience and morale.”

USAG Black Sea and the Exchange have also expanded dining options with the recent soft opening of a new Exchange Pasta Restaurant at NSTA.

The project required extensive coordination to overcome logistical and infrastructure challenges.

The Pasta Restaurant officially opened Jan. 15, with a grand opening to be announced once final planning is complete.

Together, these initiatives underscore the Exchange and USAG Black Sea’s commitment to providing reliable services that support Soldier readiness, morale and mission success.