Exchange gift cards ensure Airmen's stockings are stuffed for the holidays

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DALLAS (AFNS) --  According to the National Retail Federation, more than half of all shoppers in 2010 said they'd like to receive gift cards, marking four years in a row that gift cards have topped consumers' holiday wish lists.

For service members serving far from home, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's 3,100 retail facilities in all 50 states and some 30 countries have the solution for both them and military supporters, AAFES officials said.

"Exchange gift cards are an excellent way to send troops exactly what they want as they can select their own gifts," said Chief Master Sgt. Jeffry Helm, the Exchange's senior enlisted advisor. "Whether the service member who receives the card wants a cappuccino from Starbucks, some beef jerky from the Exchange or a tank of gas for the family car, the recipient gets support that is tailored to their need."

While only authorized military shoppers can redeem Exchange gift cards, any American can send them by simply calling 800-527-2345 or logging on to www.shopmyexchange.com and clicking "Support Your Troops" and then the "Gift and Calling Cards" icon.

From there, Exchange gift cards, ranging in values from $10 to $500, can be addressed to a specific Soldier, Airman, Sailor or Marine or sent to "any service member" through the American Red Cross, Fisher House Foundation, USO, Soldier and Family Assistance Center, Air Force Aid Society or Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.

(Courtesy of Army and Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs.)