• LAUGHLIN AFB, Texas 

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) transformed the shopping experience for military shoppers in the Del Rio, Texas, area with the reopening of the Exchange’s Laughlin AFB BX.  

The $15.7-million renovation marked the first major update of the Laughlin AFB BX since it was built in 1982.  

Improvements included new flooring and lighting; relocation of an expanded Express to the same building as the BX; 24-hour unattended fuel access with diesel; more grab-and-go options; and the addition of a Chopz eatery, featuring Better-For-You (BFY) made-to-order meals. Three new food truck stalls were also added east of the new Express location. 

The project was funded primarily by the Exchange, with the Air Force Education Training Command contributing $6 million for required roof, HVAC, and fire alarm replacements; LED lighting upgrades; renovated restrooms; and other building improvements. 

SUPPORTING QUALITY OF LIFE 

“This updated store directly supports readiness and resiliency and consolidates Exchange operations under one roof, creating a one-stop shopping experience,” said General Manager (GM) Madeline Salazar.  

“Because Laughlin is a remote location, these improvements create a more welcoming, community-centered environment which is a true quality-of-life enhancement.” 

Those views were echoed by Laughlin AFB 47th Fighter Wing Commander Col. Tyler Ellison. “This means a lot for ‘Team Laughlin.’ This is not just a new opportunity for shopping but also a mission enhancement and a force multiplier.  

“The upgraded store is a quality-of-life improvement that will significantly impact our operations here at Laughlin and will have a significant impact on all our families and everyone who shops here.” 

Source: AAFES 

Edited by Larry Lapka