Fort Bragg Popeyes Manager Named Professional of the Year by Strathmore’s Who’s Who

Fort Bragg Exchange Popeyes Manager Loredana Marciano serves Soldiers in the food court and manages a team of associates. For her, serving the Fort Bragg community means much more than selling meals.

Marciano was named Professional of the Year for Government/Retail/Restaurant Management on the 2021 Strathmore’s Who’s Who list.

Strathmore’s, a registry and global network for outstanding professionals, highlighted Marciano for her leadership, contributions and achievements in the field of government food services.

“I was surprised to be honored among so many other people,” said Marciano. “I love working for the Exchange. I just try to take care of the Soldiers the best that I can.”

Marciano stated her relationships with the Soldiers as the highlight of her job.

“I noticed a Soldier who regularly visited Popeyes hadn’t been around for some time,” said Marciano. “One day he came to the restaurant and told me that he had lost his dad. Each of us walked around the counter and gave him a hug—that’s what it’s all about.”

Marciano, a native of Italy, married Army Soldier Billy Joe Southern Sr., and relocated to Fort Bragg in 2001. She started her Exchange career as a food service worker selling ice cream before progressing to her current management role. Her husband served in the Army for 16 years. Marciano has been with the Exchange for 20 years. Her son also works at Fort Bragg Exchange.

“It’s nice to see Loredana recognized for her daily efforts during these challenging times,” said Fort Bragg Exchange General Manager Amanda Hartfield. “Loredana’s passion for serving our Soldiers exemplifies the Exchange’s core value of family serving family.”

Marciano cites her love for Fort Bragg and the Soldiers as the inspiration behind her success.

“I’ve made Fort Bragg my home,” said Marciano. “I love the Soldiers and I’m proud to serve them.”