WASHINGTON,
DC—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, November 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.