SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s senior enlisted advisor is dedicated to ensuring Airmen and families have healthy dining options at Spangdahlem Air Base, whether they are in the food court or grabbing a snack at the Express.
To understand how the Exchange can best meet the needs of the Spangdahlem community, Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate toured the main Exchange, food court and Express during his July 11, 2016 visit.
“I always look forward to visiting Airmen in person and hearing how we can customize Exchange support,” Chief Applegate said. “The Exchange is engaged and ready to tailor offerings to meet the unique needs of the Spangdahlem community.”
During his visit, Applegate met with 52nd Fighter Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Edwin Ludwigsen to discuss how the Exchange can best support Airmen and families at Spangdahlem, including offering healthy choices in the food court and the Express and an assortment of athletic wear and footwear in the main store.
“The Exchange knows it’s important for Airmen to be mission-ready in body and spirit,” Applegate said. “Offering fresh, healthy snacks and meals in a convenient location helps Airmen and their families make smart choices even if they’re in a rush.”
At Spangdahlem, the Exchange offers a host of healthy options at its restaurants and Express locations. In the food court, Subway and Charley’s have healthy meals available in addition to Popeyes located at the Express.
“Dining out doesn’t have to be a blow to the wallet—or the waistline,” Applegate said. “The food court has plenty of affordable, low-calorie options, including chicken entrees, sandwiches and salads, to keep Airmen and their families feeling satisfied.”
For Airmen who are in a hurry, the Express offers an array of healthy snacks, Applegate said.
“The Exchange wants the Express to be all about convenience,” he said. “The Express’ island cooler, stocked with fresh fruit, yogurt, bottled water and more, makes it easy for Airmen to grab a quick bite and go.”
In the main store, the Exchange recently revamped its BE FIT section, giving it the look and feel of a big-box athletic store. Name brands shoppers know and trust, including Nike, Under Armour, Adidas and New Balance, are featured in the section.
Every time Airmen shop the Exchange, grab a snack at the Express or dine at an Exchange restaurant, they are generating funds that help make life better at Spangdahlem.
“For every dollar earned, historically 67 cents comes back to the military community through Air Force Services dividends,” Applegate said. “Last year, sales at the Spangdahlem Exchange generated nearly $489,000 on behalf of Services programs. Every time shoppers go to an Exchange, they are improving their entire military community.”
Applegate is one of 35 active-duty service members assigned to the Exchange. The Exchange also employs about 35,500 civilian associates worldwide.
For more information about the Exchange and Exchange programs, visit shopmyexchange.com.