U.S.
AAFES loads up on supplies at military bases ahead of hurricane season
Stars and Stripes
June 10, 2025
AAFES brought in a mobile store for soldiers and families who are healing from the effects of Hurricane Helene at Fort Eisenhower, Ga., Oct. 1, 2024. (David Logsdon/U.S. Army)
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is increasing supplies at military installations vulnerable to severe weather ahead of this year’s hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
The Department of Defense’s largest retailer has restocked water, flashlights, batteries, generators, extension cords and other essential items to ensure these high-demand products can be deployed to exchanges. Stores also prepared lists of items to be shipped in advance, ensuring adequate supplies.
“The Exchange has a powerful infrastructure that enables us to effectively support military communities before and after disasters strike,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Rich Martinez, the AAFES senior enlisted adviser. “The team is fully committed to ensuring the well-being of the communities we serve during these critical times.”
The AAFES Waco Distribution Center in Texas also stands ready to be deployed to communities in the aftermath of severe storms with 53-foot trailers that can be filled with snacks, beverages and hygiene items.
At installations at risk to severe weather, managers monitor forecasts and work with command groups to ensure exchanges are ready for major storms. The AAFES Disaster Support Group also keeps a close watch on global weather developments to effectively respond to storms.
AAFES has supported military communities after hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 and in the aftermath of other severe weather events.
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron conduct debris cleanup as part of Hurricane Helene recovery efforts at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Sept. 29, 2024. (Devin Boyer/U.S. Air Force)
Debris from Hurricane Helene covers the entrance of the Bay Palms Golf Complex at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 3, 2024. (Sterling Sutton/U.S. Air Force)
Roofs of the damaged housing units are repaired on Fort Eisenhower as the installation works to recover from Hurricane Helene. (David Logsdon/U.S. Army)
Birds take refuge in floodwaters near the base’s golf course during the early morning hours following Hurricane Milton’s landfall at Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., Oct. 10, 2024. (Zoe Russell/U.S. Space Force)