The Department of Defense announced a policy change that will extend
limited online military exchange shopping privileges to all honorably
discharged veterans of the military.
The veterans online shopping benefit will be effective this Veterans Day,
Nov. 11.
While shopping privileges exclude the purchase of uniforms, alcohol and
tobacco products, it includes the Exchange Services’ dynamic online retail
environment known so well to service members and their families. This
policy change follows careful analysis, coordination and strong public
support.
“We are excited to provide these benefits to honorably discharged veterans
to recognize their service and welcome them home to their military family,”
said Peter Levine, performing the duties for the under secretary of defense
for personnel and readiness.
“In addition, this initiative represents a low-risk, low-cost opportunity to
help fund Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs in support of service
members’ and their families’ quality of life. And it’s just the right thing to do,”
Levine added.
The online benefit will also strengthen the exchanges’ online businesses to
better serve current patrons. Inclusion of honorably discharged veterans
would conservatively double the exchanges’ online presence, thereby
improving the experience for all patrons through improved vendor terms,
more competitive merchandise assortments, and improved efficiencies,
according to DoD officials.
“As a nation, we are grateful for the contributions of our service members.
Offering this lifetime online benefit is one small, tangible way the nation
can say, ‘Thank you’ to those who served with honor,” Levine said.
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