• CANNON AFB, N.M.

A new Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) self-service market has opened here, enabling customers who are not close to the main store to browse and shop at a mini-convenience store 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Rich Martinez, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor, visited the self-service market to better understand the needs of the community.

“We are honored to receive recognition from command regarding the Exchange’s proactive initiatives in community support,” Martinez said.  

“The introduction of the new market stands as a commendable example of our collaborative efforts with local command to thoughtfully address the needs of the Cannon community,” he noted. “Together, we continue to foster a positive impact.” 

The grand opening of the self-service market was also attended by Air Force 27th Special Operations Wing Commander Col. Robert L. Johnston and 27th Special Operations Wing Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Gunnell.  

“CONVENIENCE IN MIND” 

Nearly 3,000 active-duty Airmen and their families live in off-base housing, which is approximately a mile from the main Exchange.  

This distance can create difficulties for those without convenient transportation, making the need to provide access to snacks and everyday essentials increasingly apparent.

“The market was designed with convenience in mind,” Cannon AFB Exchange General Manager (GM) Joanne Bedford said.  

“Given the community’s distance from the commissary, BX and Express stores, we recognized the importance of providing our residents with quick, 24/7 access to snacks, beverages and basic necessities,” she added. “This project exemplifies the Exchange’s mission to improve the lives of military families by bringing modern shopping options closer to home.”  

Source: AAFES 

Edited by Larry Lapka