Today, on Memorial Day, part of National Military Appreciation Month, the nation remembers its fallen service members, who gave the ultimate sacrifice to their nation.
Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1971, honoring the men and women who died in uniform. It is observed on the last Monday of May, with many marking the day by going to cemeteries or memorials, participating in parades or wearing a red poppy flower — a tradition originating from a World War I.
Both the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) reflected on service members who have gone into battle and perished defending our nation, as well as their respective commitments to service members, veterans, and their families.
DeCA
• FORT GREGG-ADAMS
On Memorial Day, DeCA joins the nation in “saluting those who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending our country, our freedom and our liberty,” said Navy Command Master Chief Mario Rivers, senior enlisted advisor to the DeCA director.
“At the commissary, our workforce has a strong military connection with more than 65 percent being an active-duty member or reservist, a veteran or family member,” Rivers said. “Honoring the legacy of our fallen comrades is very personal for us.”
AAFES
• DALLAS
During National Military Appreciation Month, AAFES is reaffirming its 130-year commitment to those who serve by spotlighting its efforts to hire, retain and support veterans and military spouses across the globe.
With nearly 65,000 veterans and military spouses hired since 2013, the Exchange remains a vital force multiplier — offering meaningful careers that bring financial stability to military families and strengthen overall force readiness and retention.
“Veterans and military spouses are the heart of ‘Team Exchange,’” said Exchange Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tom Shull, an Army veteran. “They’ve walked in the boots of our shoppers. Their dedication, resilience and experience help the Exchange deliver unmatched service to military communities worldwide.”
Veterans make up 10 percent of the Exchange’s 25,000 associates. Veterans who join “Team 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.
“The Exchange is more than just a workplace — it’s a mission with heart,” said Marcia Rhodes, Exchange Headquarters strategic marketing manager and Air Force veteran. “For veterans, it offers the opportunity to continue serving and stay connected to the military community. It is a place where your experience matters, your purpose is renewed and your contributions make a lasting impact.”
Source: DeCA, AAFES
Edited by Larry Lapka
