One in a series honoring the Exchange’s 130 years of family serving family
Who he is: Miguel Rodriguez, Italy Consolidated Exchange visual merchandiser supervisor
Years at the Exchange: Less than 1
What brought him to the Exchange: Rodriguez was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where military service was a constant presence in his life. With family members who served across generations, including his father and grandfather, a Korean War Veteran, Rodriguez grew up with a deep respect for service.
In 2005, he joined the Army, beginning a 20-year career that included five combat deployments, two to Iraq and three to Afghanistan.
During deployments, Rodriguez often found himself at remote combat outposts with limited access to basic supplies. He recalls the impact of Exchange support during those times.
“I still remember AAFES team members arriving by helicopter to open a small container where we could buy essentials,” he said. “It gave us a small sense of normalcy in a war zone.”
At the time, he didn’t realize those were Exchange associates who were working in dangerous conditions, away from their own families, to support deployed service members.
Just more than a month after retiring from the Army in 2025, he joined the Italy Consolidated Exchange as a visual merchandiser supervisor.
The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging for many Veterans, but Rodriguez said the Exchange provided something essential.
“It gave me purpose,” he said. “It created a bridge between my past service and my future goals, helping me stay connected to something bigger than myself.”
Most memorable Exchange experience: “What stands out most to me is the dedication of those Exchange associates who showed up for us in deployed locations,” he said. “Even in the most challenging conditions, they made sure we had what we needed, and that meant more than people realize.”
Exchange through the years: “I’ve seen the Exchange from both sides, first as a Soldier relying on it during deployments, and now as an associate supporting others,” he said. “That perspective gives me a deeper appreciation for the mission and the impact it has on the military community every day.”
That perspective gives him a unique appreciation for the Exchange mission and the role it plays in enhancing quality of life for the military community.
Family serving family: “To me, it means service members serving service members and their families,” he said. “We understand what it means to be far from home and to rely on one another.”
He sees his work as more than a job, it’s a continuation of his service.
“Being part of the Exchange allows me to give back to the community that shaped me,” he said. “It’s another way to continue serving.”
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