New Europe/SWA/Africa Commander Gets a Look at Vital Operations at Germersheim DC
The new Exchange commander for Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa dove into his role with a recent visit to the Germersheim Distribution Center, a pivotal hub in the Exchange’s global operations.
“I am thoroughly impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of the Germersheim Distribution Center team,” said Col. Everett “Bud” Lacroix. “Their dedication to the mission of supporting our service members and their families is inspiring and truly embodies the spirit of the Exchange. Witnessing their hard work and pride firsthand, I am confident in our ability to meet the evolving needs of our military community.”
The 420,000-square-foot Germersheim DC is responsible for receiving, routing and distributing food, beverages, appliances and other merchandise to PXs, BXs, commissaries and Exchange restaurants across Europe, Southwest Asia and contingency locations. It also ensures raw goods and American ingredients are shipped to the Exchange’s bakery and water plant in Gruenstadt.
“It was an honor to host Col. Lacroix and pull back the curtain for him on all the behind-the-scenes work the Exchange does to make sure our troops are provided for,” said Germersheim DC manager Carlos “Charlie” Rios. “It was also an opportunity to highlight the dedication of the DC team, which takes a lot of pride in the work we do. We have 24 associates here who are Veterans, and the invaluable experience they bring shows in our successful outcomes.”
From left: Germersheim Distribution Center Assistant Manager Joerg Mueller, Auto Repair Shop Supervisor Udo Valentin, EU Regional Fleet Manager Brian Guest, Customer Service Manager Alexandra Gottfried, Exchange Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa Commander Col. Bud Lacroix and DC Manager Carlos “Charlie” Rios.”
Regional Fleet Supervisor Brian Guest detailed the center’s operational scale for Lacroix, noting that the DC manages more than 140 dispatches a week with about 35 truck drivers. The Germersheim DC also maintains nine mobile field Exchanges, ready to deploy to support troops in austere locations.
Lacroix praised the team’s commitment and noted their critical role in supporting military operations.
“Visiting the Germersheim Distribution Center was an eye-opening experience,” he said. “The passion and excitement displayed by the Exchange associates here are remarkable. They understand the vital role they play in supporting our troops, and their commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their work. I am proud to lead a team that shares such a profound sense of purpose.”
