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Photo Information

Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate (left), the senior enlisted advisor to the exchange, Sgt. Maj. Robert Williamson (center), sergeant major of Marine Corps Installations Pacific and Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, and Army Sgt. Major James Pigford, the Exchange Pacific Region senior enlisted advisor, conduct an after action review following the exchange sensing session June 12 at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster. (photos by Army Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux)

Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux

Exchange Senior Enlisted Advisor Focuses on serving Marines on Okinawa

12 Jul 2015 | Staff Sgt. Robert DeDeaux Okinawa Marines

The Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s senior enlisted advisor is working to ensure Marines on Okinawa get the products and service they need.

Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Applegate met with Sgt. Maj. Robert Williamson, sergeant major of Marine Corps Installations Pacific and Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, and Marines June 12 to address how the Okinawa exchange can better serve the community, including beefing up its assortment of name-brand merchandise in-store and online.

“I always look forward to visiting (service members) in person and hearing how we can customize Exchange support,” said Applegate. “I want  the Marines stationed here to know that the Okinawa exchange is engaged and ready to tailor offerings to the unique needs of the community.”

Applegate is one of 45 active-duty service members assigned to the exchange, which also employs about 35,000 civilian associates worldwide.

During his visit, Applegate discussed how the exchange can offer better selection and value.

“The Exchange works hard to be the first choice for Marines stationed thourghout Camp Butler installations,” said Applegate. “Part of being the first choice means offering top brands shoppers want. Exchange shoppers deserve the best, and we’re bringing names such as Apple, Michael Kors and Bose.”

According to Applegate, exchange prices on name brands are very competitive and the competitive prices coupled with tax-free savings give shoppers tremendous value. In addition to saving shoppers money, a portion of every purchase made at the exchange goes back to improving quality of life at all Marine installations on the island.

“For every dollar earned, historically 67 cents comes back to the military community through the Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation dividend,” explained Applegate. “Every time shoppers buy from the exchange, they are making life better for their entire military community.”

For more information about the exchange and its programs, shoppers can visit shopmyexchange.com or their local exchange.