Fort Liberty Exchange Celebrates Grand Opening of Glider Express
The Exchange celebrated the grand opening of the new Glider Express, continuing the Department of Defense retailer’s expansion of services at Fort Liberty.
The new store addresses the needs of America’s largest military base. With a population of more than 245,000, the Fort Liberty community will now have greater access to fuel and dining options on post. The Glider Express is the 15th to open on Fort Liberty.
The new 12,272-square-foot Express, in the heart of the 82nd Airborne Division training area, features 20 fuel pumps; Hunt Brothers Pizza serving ready-made pizza by the slice and wings; and a Snack Avenue assortment with BE FIT 360-approved choices, including salads, fruit and vegetables. Chipotle is set to open later this year.
The store offers an enhanced shopping experience with an efficient layout in modern settings, featuring patriotic-themed décor, including a mural dedicated to Lt. Gen. James Gavin, the third commanding general of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Brig. Gen. Jason Williams, 82nd Airborne Division Deputy Commanding General of Support; Command Sgt. Maj. Randolph Delapena, 82nd Airborne Division Command Sgt. Major; and Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Seymour joined Exchange East Central Regional Vice President Chris Holifield and General Manager Thomas “TK” Kuttamperoor in a ribbon-cutting on June 18.
“The Exchange is listening to what our shoppers want and need, and we’re responding with the services that make their lives easier,” Kuttamperoor said. “Adding 20 new fuel pumps, a place to grab a quick lunch and a larger selection of healthy snacks is a great quality-of-life boost for Fort Liberty Soldiers, families and visitors.”
100% of Exchange earnings are reinvested into military communities through contributions to critical on-post Quality-of-Life programs, as well as capital improvements such as the Glider Express.
The $15 million project was funded entirely by the Exchange. Construction took about 15 months to complete.
From left: Fort Liberty Exchange General Manager Thomas “TK” Kuttamperoor; Command Sgt. Maj. Randolph Delapena, 82nd Airborne Division; Exchange East Central VP Chris Holifield; Fort Liberty Retail Business Manager Pilar Pendergrass; Store Manager Brian Burge; Brig. Gen. Jason Williams, 82nd Airborne Division Deputy Commanding General of Support’ and Fort Liberty Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Seymour.
