The Exchange lives up to its “We go where you go” motto with stores serving locations all over the world, from the South Pacific to the North Atlantic, from Kuwait to Korea and more.
Many of these locations are remote and unusual, even in CONUS, where branch stores serve smaller military communities. In this Exchange Post series, we look at the stories behind these stores. This installment is about the American Samoa Exchange.
What makes American Samoa Exchange unique: The American Samoa Exchange serves Army Reservists, Veterans and the local military community in a remote South Pacific location. True to the Exchange mission, we go wherever the troops are and meet their needs—no matter how remote. For many service members who return home after serving, the Exchange remains a trusted resource, providing essential goods, services and a continued connection to the military community.
Major units supported:
- 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment
- 127th Chaplain Detachment
- 411th Engineer Battalion, Alpha Company
- 7th Battalion, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Group
- 962nd Quartermaster (Mortuary Affairs) Company, 2nd Platoon
Size of the team: 20 associates
Number of facilities: An Express store
Installation history: The Army Reserve established its presence in American Samoa in 1980 with the activation of a provisional detachment of Charlie Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment. The Pele U.S. Army Reserve Center, which broke ground in 2002, supports multiple units, including Charlie and Bravo Companies of the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment (“Go for Broke”); the Theater Support Group American Samoa Detachment; the 962nd Quartermaster (Mortuary Affairs) Company; and the 411th Forward Support Company.
Store history: The Exchange opened in November 1987 under the leadership of Marion A. Cockrell, Hawaii Area Exchange general manager, and Col. Richard Matsui, commander of AAFES-Pacific. The original 3,600-square-foot store was at the former Tree Top U.S. Army Reserve Center. In February 2007, the Exchange relocated to its current home in the Te’o Soldiers Support Center.
What it’s like to live there: American Samoa offers an island lifestyle with a tropical climate, breathtaking ocean views and lush rainforests. The community is close-knit and culturally rich, providing a peaceful environment with a strong sense of connection and pride.
What associates can do during time off: Associates can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, from relaxing on scenic beaches to hiking the historic Mount Alava Trail. Off-island adventures include boat trips to Aunu’u, while local villages offer opportunities to experience cultural events and outdoor activities in a vibrant community setting.
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