Exchange Leader Says ‘Godspeed’ After a Lifetime of Service

Team Exchange,

For 14 years, it’s been a privilege to serve alongside you and once again be part of the military community. Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about honoring those who serve and doing right by them.

I grew up in an Army family. My father served for 30 years, including 45 months in combat. We spent five years in Europe, in Italy and in France, before returning to the United States. Growing up, the Exchange was a lifeline for my sister, brother and me. The food court, the theater and the PX gave us that essential taste of home.

I graduated from Heidelberg American High School in Germany before beginning my lifelong commitment to service at the U.S. Military Academy. During my 23 years in the Army, I served as a Rifle Platoon Leader, Scout Platoon Leader, Support Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer and Infantry Company Commander. The Exchange was with me every step of the way.

In 1981, I was named to the 17th class of White House Fellows and served in the Office of the Chief of Staff. During my last active-duty assignment, I served as Military Assistant to Robert “Bud” McFarlane, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs. During this time, I represented the White House in helping successfully champion construction and dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

After serving our Nation and leading treasured retailers like Macy’s and Barneys New York, joining the Exchange in 2012 felt like coming home.

The Exchange’s We Go Where You Go mission still matters to Soldiers, Airmen, Guardians and families. The Exchange is an integral part of the military community—it’s important we remain all in, strengthening readiness, resilience and Quality of Life.

During our time together, Team Exchange has accomplished so much, including:

• Extending the lifelong Exchange benefit to 22 million Veterans who served honorably.
• Hiring 68,000 veterans and military spouses and 2,200 wounded warriors.
• Serving 1 billion meals, including 45 million school meals to dependents overseas.
• Supporting at the tip of the spear, including serving 1.2 million warriors and during 350 exercises.
• Outfitting more than 14 million combat uniforms at cost.
• Supporting first responders and communities impacted by fires, hurricanes and other natural disasters.
• Generating $19 billion in benefits supporting Quality of Life for the military community.

Military resale is sacrosanct. My father used to say, “As long as my family is taken care of, I’m all in for the Army.” My father’s words were always top of mind as Team Exchange rose to each occasion, supporting all who serve and have served.

Serving those who serve has truly been the greatest honor of my life.

Godspeed to all of you.

Tom