Vance Exchange celebrates AAFES 117th birthday Published Aug. 1, 2012 VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The Vance Exchange celebrated the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's 117th birthday with free soft drinks and cake and a variety of in-store specials July 25. AAFES was originally called the "Exchange," a name the stores worldwide are using once again. In 1895, the War Department issued General Order 46 directing commanders to establish an Exchange at every post. Since then, Exchange associates have served alongside service members wherever they are called to serve. "To say that this benefit has been around for 117 years is a testament to the loyalty of generations of military shoppers," said the Exchange's Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. "July 25th is our annual opportunity to celebrate and thank them for their service and for making the Exchange their first choice," Pearson said. In 2011, the Exchange returned $203 million to the military services for quality-of-life programs.