About 500 Soldiers returning from Afghanistan to Fort Drum and facing quarantine can still get soap, snacks and sundries from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s mobile field exchange (MFE).
Upon arriving in the U.S., the Soldiers are placed in quarantine for 14 days and not permitted to leave a controlled area. As a result, they have no access to the Fort Drum Exchange, Express or food court.
“These Soldiers are so happy to be back home but, unfortunately, they are still cut off from the outside world with the quarantine,” said Fort Drum Exchange Store Manager Jackie Bellis. “This MFE brought them some sense of normalcy and ensures they have what they need for the two weeks’ confinement.”
While some Soldiers have been surprised to see the MFE, almost all have expressed their appreciation.
“I love the friendly faces and really appreciate the Exchange being here,” said Capt. Stewart Merrick. “I’m almost out of quarantine and have been really glad to have a place to go.”
The MFE, operated by four Fort Drum associates on alternating shifts, opened on July 14 and will serve quarantined Soldiers until late September. Because of social distancing, the maximum occupancy for the MFE is two shoppers and one Exchange associate.
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