Exchange Rodeo Provides Essentials for 101st Airborne Soldiers in Romania
101st Airborne Soldiers were ecstatic when they learned that the Exchange was coming to Smardan, Romania, in early May to provide drinks, snacks toiletries and other essentials.
The rodeo was met enthusiastically by the Soldiers, who assisted the Exchange team in unloading the van containing merchandise. The rodeo remained on the camp for four hours, selling nearly 2,600 items.
Exchange barbers also made the 3½-hour drive from Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base and gave haircuts to nearly 40 Soldiers.
Balkans and Turkey Exchange General Manager Gino Rakas said this operation has been long-awaited.
“We have been planning this trip for quite some time,” Rakas said. “We worked with the local command to ensure the Soldiers were all on site and able to make purchases. We are very thankful that the barbers agreed to travel so far and work in an austere environment.”
The Exchange team plans to make the trip to Smardan every two weeks to provide the troops what they need.
“This is a great chance to show the military that we are there for them and that we go where they go,” Rakas said. “One of the best parts of the job for our associates is the chance to put smiles on the troops’ faces.”
Outstanding. Thank you, Exchange!
Awesome…go where the troops are, business as usual!
I read this and can’t help but feel good about how the Exchange I work for supports all those away from home. I know if that were me out there isolated doing my job for family and country, I would be excited to have the Exchange providing me a touch of home, even if it was down to a toothbrush I would need. My Exchange can always be depended on to be there.