Commissary, Exchange and MWR

Military family members enjoy many base privileges, these include access to the Commissary, Exchange, and MWR. The following is a summary of these important services:

Commissaries

The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) operates the military Commissaries throughout the world. DeCA Commissaries are supermarkets, usually located on military installations, that sell food, sundry and cleaning products for cost plus a 5 percent surcharge to active duty military, guard and reserve members, retirees and qualified family members. Authorized shoppers need only show proper military ID to use the commissary.

As of November 2003 Guard and Reserve received unlimited shopping privileges signed into law under the 2004 Defense Authorization act.

Exchanges

Post exchanges, base exchanges, Army and Air Force exchange service (AAFES), Navy exchanges, Marine exchanges (NEX), and shoppettes are all examples of military exchange stores. The exchange is the military department and drug store. Guard and Reserve personnel and their dependents have unlimited shopping privileges at any exchange. A military ID is required.

MWR

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities include arts and crafts facilities, bowling centers, golf courses, libraries, outdoor recreation, recreation centers, youth centers activities and recreation membership clubs. In most instances, Guard and Reserve members and their dependents are entitled to use all class "C" facilities on the same basis as active duty personnel. Local installation and facility commanders do have the authority to establish priorities for MWR activities that are high demand and unable to accommodate all who desire to participate. Be sure to call ahead and confirm hours of operation and eligibility for the activity you and your family are interested in.

Contact your base MWR to find out exactly what they have to offer in your area.

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