• DALLAS
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is celebrating 130 years of serving the military community by honoring those who have worn the uniform with on-the-spot hiring events during National Hire a Veteran Day on July 25.
More than 80 PXs, BXs and distribution centers worldwide will host in-person hiring events, connecting veterans to meaningful careers at the Department of Defense’s (DoD) largest retailer.
The event coincides with the Exchange’s milestone 130th anniversary — marking more than a century of dedication to serving warfighters and their families at home and abroad.
“Service to our nation doesn’t stop at separation or retirement from the military — it evolves,” said Exchange Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tom Shull, an Army veteran.
“At the Exchange, we extend the opportunity for continued service through careers that directly support the lives of warfighters and their families,” he noted. “Veterans strengthen our team, our culture and our ability to fulfill our 130-year-old mission.”
VETERANS/AAFES CONNECTION
Veterans make up 10 percent of the Exchange’s 25,000 associates. Veterans who join the Exchange enjoy competitive pay, top benefits — including paid time off, medical insurance, flexible work schedules and the ability to count their military service time toward Exchange retirement eligibility.
Since 2013, the Exchange has hired more than 65,000 veterans and military spouses, reaffirming its commitment to being a quality-of-life force multiplier for military families.
The Exchange’s focus on hiring veterans has been key to the organization being recognized as a:
- Top 10 Military Friendly Employer by G.I. Jobs magazine
- VETS Indexes 4-Star Employer by VETS Indexes
- Best for Vets Employer by Military Times
- Best of the Best by U.S. Veterans Magazine
“FAMILY SERVING FAMILY”
Veterans bring a unique insight to the Exchange’s mission of “Family Serving Family,” often having walked in the same
boots as the customers they serve.
“As we proudly celebrate 130 years of service, our commitment to hiring those who know the mission best —veterans and military spouses — has never been stronger,” said Rick Young, Exchange chief, Human Resources (HR) Operations.
“The Exchange is more than just a place to work; it’s where heroes continue their journey of service,” he noted. “On National Hire a Veteran Day, we honor that legacy by welcoming those whose dedication, resilience, and sacrifice inspire us daily. Together, we serve those who serve.”
Young said that joining the Exchange is more than “just a job” — “It’s a continuation of service. Our associates strengthen our mission every day by supporting readiness, resiliency and quality of life for the military community.”
Veterans, military spouses and others interested in exploring career opportunities can learn more at ApplyMyExchange.com or stop by a participating location on July 25 for on-the-spot interviews. The list of participating locations can be accessed at https://publicaffairs-sme.com/Community/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/07/HUB-HireVetDay-2.pdf
Source: AAFES
Edited by Larry Lapka
