The Army and Air Force Exchange linage dates back to 1895 when the War Department established the first formal post exchanges. Its mission today is essentially the same as the mission of those early post exchanges: to provide necessary merchandise and services to the military. Because of this mission, exchanges have gone wherever the troops have.

From World War I to the conflict in the Balkans, the 1900s would be seen as a century that tempered and defined AAFES. With each war, conflict, natural disaster or joint military operation, AAFES continually changed and improved its operations to meet each challenge and provide a touch of home to troops worldwide.

A new century brought with it new threats to our peace and freedom. As America rose to defend its freedom, AAFES was along side our brave Soldiers and Airmen providing them with necessities and comforts from home. Our associates volunteered to serve in dangerous places worldwide and have proudly supported our troops wherever they were called to go.