Holiday Spirit Abounds at Puerto Rico Exchange

Puerto Rico is still recovering after suffering double blows from Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Power, water and other necessities have been in short supply. Delivering live Christmas trees to the island would be difficult, but the Fort Buchanan Exchange team and Logistics were undeterred as they worked hard to ensure customers had the merchandise they needed for a holly, jolly, holiday.

Fort Buchanan received four containers of Christmas trees in December. Associates worked quickly to unload the trees, handing them directly to customers who were lined up waiting for the shipment.

General Manager Nick Nguyen explained the importance of the tree delivery to Fort Buchanan: “The Exchange is the only place on the island that offers live Christmas trees this year.”

Supply Chain Vice President Sean Shaw praised Transportation Operations Vice President Morgan Meeks for getting the trees to Puerto Rico in time for the holidays, “Special kudos go to Morgan and her extremely strong power of persuasion.”

Customers lined up for Christmas trees at the Fort Buchanan Exchange, the only place on the island where live trees were available.

Customers received help from an associate as they tied a tree on their car.

Click here for live video of trees coming to Fort Buchanan

Installation commanders showed their appreciation to Nguyen with a Civilian Service Award for the efforts before, during and after the hurricanes and support of the ongoing recovery. Fort Buchanan Garrison Commander COL Guy Bass and Garrison Command Sergeant Major Quintana  recognized the entire Exchange team for its role in supporting the community after the devastating hurricanes.

President/CMO Ana Middleton agreed with the recognition, “Well deserved, Nick. You and your team showed us all what disaster recovery and community engagement should look like. You all have truly set the bar!”

Fort Buchanan Garrison Commander COL Guy Bass (right) and Garrison Command Sergeant Major Quintana (center)  honored General Manager Nick Nguyen (left) with the Civilian Service Award.

Fort Buchanan Associates Show their Holiday Shopping Spirit

Fort Buchanan Associates also celebrated the season with a special shopping appreciation night. The Exchange opened its doors after closing hours for associates and their families to enjoy shopping, games and special events to reward their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

Fort Buchanan associates celebrated the holidays together during a special shopping event.