129 Years of Family Serving Family: Donald Howell, Stuttgart Food Court Manager
One in a series honoring the Exchange’s 129 years of family serving family.
Who he is: Donald Howell, food court manager for the Stuttgart Panzer Exchange.
Military connections: Howell’s family has deep military roots. His extended family has served across various branches—Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force, mostly during the Vietnam War era. His older brother recently retired as a command sergeant major, while his younger brothers also served in the Army. “Growing up in a military family, service was always a core value. It’s what drove me to join the Army and later find a way to continue serving through the Exchange.”
Military Service: Howell’s military career began in 1992, with basic training in Oklahoma and subsequent duty in Kirchgoens, Germany, with the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery. Howell’s service in the Army provided him with a solid foundation in discipline and leadership, skills he would later bring to his roles at the Exchange: “The Army taught me the importance of leadership and teamwork. These lessons have been invaluable in my role with the Exchange, especially when managing large teams and complex operations.”
What brought him to the Exchange: After leaving the Army, Howell sought to continue serving the military community. His connection to the Exchange began at the Giessen Army Depot, where he initially applied for a gas station position. However, the HR office suggested a role in the food department instead. Howell accepted, starting his journey with the Exchange in June 1996 as an intermittent food service worker. “I knew I wanted to stay connected to the military community, so when I saw the Exchange logo and a job opportunity, I knew it was the right fit for me.”
What he did next: Howell’s career with the Exchange progressed. He transitioned from food service worker to PowerZone associate and lead food service worker. After returning to Germany in November 1999, Howell rejoined the Exchange and advanced to positions such as food foreman, assistant restaurant manager and food court manager. His responsibilities included overseeing multiple locations, including Giessen, Hanau, Friedberg, Heidelberg, Mannheim and Stuttgart. “Each role I’ve taken on has been a learning experience. Whether I was managing a team at Burger King or overseeing multiple food courts, it’s been about growing and adapting to meet the needs of our customers.”
Memorable moments: One of Howell’s standout memories is the advent of computers and email at the Exchange. This shift revolutionized how schedules and paperwork were managed, improving productivity. Howell recalls the challenge and excitement of adapting to new technologies, which transformed operational efficiency. “The introduction of computers and email was a game changer. It was incredible to see how technology could streamline our processes and enhance our productivity.”
Best part of working for the Exchange: For Howell, the most rewarding aspect of his job is the chance to serve the military community and be part of the Exchange’s family. The phrase “family serving family” deeply resonates with him, reflecting the unity and support that characterizes the Exchange environment. “The best part of working for the Exchange is the sense of belonging. We’re not just employees; we’re part of a larger family committed to supporting those who serve.”
Family Serving Family: Howell’s commitment to the Exchange is matched by his family’s involvement. His wife, Sabine Howell, is a school meal program manager for the U.S. European Command. Their oldest daughter recently took on a role as a services business technician in Stuttgart. Additionally, Howell’s youngest daughter works at an Express gas station in the UK, alongside his son-in-law, who serves in the Air Force as an air traffic controller. This collective commitment underscores the Howell family’s deep connection to the Exchange and its values. “Family serving family is more than just a slogan for us. It’s a way of life. My wife, daughters, and son-in-law are all part of the Exchange community, and it’s a source of immense pride to see our family contribute to the mission together.”
