Airmens' investments pays off for Moody quality of life programs Published May 29, 2009 Army & Air Force Exchange Service MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- While many retailers struggled, or even closed their doors in 2008, the exchange benefit continued to pay dividends for military families. Strong sales and earnings at Army & Air Force Exchange Service facilities, the Exchange Online Store and Exchange Catalogs helped deliver more than $260 million to Army, Air Force, National Guard, Marine Corps and Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation efforts during 2008. "Historically, roughly two-thirds of AAFES earnings are paid to MWR and 23rd Force Support Squadron programs with the other third used to build new stores or renovate existing facilities," said Chris Holifield, Base Exchange general manager. "This structure means that authorized customers are essentially our 'investors.' Fortunately, thrifty shoppers rediscovering the value the exchange offers allowed the BX to provide a healthy return on their investment," he added. Purchases made by our authorized customers' at the Main BX and other AAFES activities at Moody during 2008 generated a dividend of $421,704. These funds are critical to the 23rd FSS's ability to enhance local programs and facilities including the Moody Field Club, Quiet Pines Golf Course and the Freedom I Fitness and Sports Center. With a mission to provide quality goods and services at competitively low prices and generate earnings to support MWR and the 23rd FSS programs, the dual benefit AAFES provides military families goes far beyond the clothes, electronics and snacks on shelves. Shoppers who exercise their exchange benefit at the BX, online at www.aafes.com, or over the phone through the Exchange Catalog actually help make the military community a better place to live and work. In fact, purchases made in the past 10 years have provided more than $2.4 billion to military quality of life programs such as youth services, base functions and aquatic centers.