Stranded Misawa AB Passengers Not Left to Go Hungry

Connie Brunson makes sure customers waiting for flights have coffee.

MISAWA AB, Japan – Thanks to Food Court Manager Connie Brunson and her team, customers at Misawa AB have food choices never before offered in the temporary passenger terminal, which does not have traditional Exchange restaurants.

“I mentioned to my manager, ‘I’m going to try and see if I can sell pizza at the temporary terminal,’” Brunson said. “She said we sold food there a long time ago, so we started with a table and one chair.”

That table and chair blossomed into a very respectable and profitable venture.

Starting with Pizza Hut pizzas and Dunkin Donuts’ Munchkins, she averaged $300 a week. Now, sales reach $1,800 to $2,000.

Brunson and her team care for service members and families all hours of the night, including during Misawa’s blizzards and other typical airport delays.   

Brunson also set up remote food service in the terminal’s secure area, where there otherwise is no food. Brunson prepares breakfast, lunch or dinner of sandwiches, pizzas, snacks and drinks for 200-250 passengers

“Brunson began her Exchange career 22 years ago at Fort Polk’s Burger King in Louisiana. Because of her drive, team-building skills, and motivation, she was promoted and never lost those virtues,” said General Manager Kris Edkin.

“Connie never lets obstacles get in her way or slow her down,” he said. “She is always willing to sacrifice her time to assist the needs of her valued customers, regardless of the hour, day or night.”