Exchange, Advisory Council Unite to Protect Military Benefits

Team,

Last week, I had the opportunity to connect face to face with members of the Exchange Advisory Council, a group of key stakeholders representing national Veteran and Military Support Organizations dedicated to serving every member of America’s military community.

Our discussion reaffirmed a shared commitment: protecting and preserving the military community’s hard-earned Quality-of-Life benefits.

Since 1997, the group, then known as the Exchange Retiree Advisory Council, has worked alongside Exchange leaders to champion the benefits and value organizations like the Exchange provide to all who serve and have served.

Collectively, the 11 organizations who serve on the Exchange Advisory Council provide critical insights regarding major military, retiree, Reserve and Guard component, enlisted, officer and family constituencies—ranging from associations with hundreds of thousands of members to advocacy and service networks reaching millions of service members and families. Members include:

• Air Force Retiree Council
• Air Force Sergeants Association
• Army Retirement Services
• Army Chief of Staff’s Retired Soldier Council
• Association of the United States Army
• Military Officers Association of America
• National Military Family Association
• Non-Commissioned Officers Association
• Reserve Organization of America
• The Retired Enlisted Association

The Exchange is more than a retailer—we are woven into the fabric of military life. We’ve generated $2.4 billion in dividends to Quality-of-Life programs in the last 10 years; hired thousands of Veterans, military spouses and dependents; and go where the troops go—something other retailers can’t or won’t do.

Advisory Council members understand the Exchange’s vital role, and they share that message with the organizations and communities they represent. Their advocacy ensures more members of the military community understand the value of their lifelong Exchange benefit.

Meeting with council members in person was incredibly valuable. By listening, collaborating and advocating, we can continue strengthening the benefits and services that improve the Quality of Life for those who serve and have served.

Serving those who serve is the ultimate responsibility and honor. Together, we will continue protecting the benefits our military community has earned—and deserves.