Coast Guard Exchange Opens at FS Gabreski Published Sept. 12, 2014 By Senior Airman Christopher S Muncy 106th Rescue Wing Public Affairs WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NEW YORK -- Following several months of construction, the Coast Guard Exchange at FS Gabreski ANG opened its doors to waiting 106th Rescue Wing Airmen on September 11th, 2014. The original Exchange was torn down when the base warehouse was replaced with a running track, and the temporary trailer that replaced it was judged insufficient for the Exchange's long-term needs. The new Exchange triples the floor space of the original, and offers a number of amenities to serve both the on-base Airmen, but also the local Coast Guard and retired community. The opening featured an invocation by Anthony Vasell and a ribbon cutting by 106RQW commander Col Thomas J Owens II. "Many people worked diligently over the last four plus years to make the new Coast Guard Exchange a reality here at the 106th Rescue Wing," Col Owens stated as he cut the ribbon. "This is a wonderful facility that will provide a great service to military members and their families. Thanks go out to all our partners for all their hard work to make this ribbon cutting a reality." In addition to the previously sold merchandise, the new Exchange has expanded its line of uniform, PT items, and now includes a coffee bar.