FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 3, 2013) -- A new Express store across from Patton Village on Sand Hill had its grand opening June 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The 6,000-square foot, $4 million store gives Families located on Sand Hill a shorter distance to travel for quickly needed items.
Melissa Ingram, a military spouse who lives in Patton Village, said getting the new Express was exciting news for her Family, because it would save them from making unnecessary trips to other parts of post.
"We share vehicles, so getting up and taking a walk during the day to get a popsicle or something (or) just being able to run and get a gallon of milk without having to go halfway down post -- it's really nice and we're excited about having it here," she said.
Vincent James, general manager of the Fort Benning Exchange said opening the Express store was done in order to meet the needs of the growing community.
"It's definitely going to be a community enhancement," he said. "The fact that they can walk over from the housing area to buy all their needed grocery products is an added benefit to the community."
Col. Michail S. Huerter, Fort Benning garrison commander, said the credit for building the Express store goes to the military Families. About three years ago, Families in Patton Village requested a facility be put in their area for day-to-day convenience.
"You guys have the great ideas, you guys have the vision -- you know what you need," Huerter said, adding that it was the mission of the Fort Benning garrison team to ensure the "best quality of life" for Soldiers and their Families.
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