Posted on 10/07/2008 5:59:44 PM PDT by SandRat
10/7/2008 - DALLAS (AFNS) -- By simply logging on to a Web site or calling a toll-free number, any American can now give Army and Air Force Exchange Service gift cards to military families worldwide.
"We're not even charging to ship these cards," said Chief Master Sgt. Jeffry Helm, AAFES' senior enlisted adviser. "Whether the AAFES gift card is sent down the street or overseas, shipping is free.
AAFES gift cards can be redeemed at base and post exchanges worldwide by active-duty troops and their families, as well as military retirees.
"With the economy the way it is, now is not the time to haphazardly guess what someone needs to brighten their day or pay extra money for shipping," said Chief Helm. "AAFES gift cards not only eliminate all shipping costs, but also put the power of choice in the hands of the spouse waiting for the return of a loved one, retiree trying to make the best of a turbulent economy, or servicemember far from home.
"All that needs to be sent is a lightweight plastic card that can be redeemed for a movie, phone call home or even gasoline for a much deserved weekend getaway," Chief Helm said.
Besides exchange gift cards, any American also can send a gift certificate that can be redeemed through the exchange's mail order catalogs or Web site.
"The gift certificates are perfect for Reserve and Guard families that may not live close to a brick and mortar exchange," said Chief Helm.
AAFES gift cards and gift certificates, up to $500, can be sent by any American who calls (877) 770-4438 or logs on to www.aafes.com. Online visitors can click on the "Gift Cards/Certificates for our Troops" link under AAFES Community Connection on the home page.
Gift certificates are sent to individual servicemembers (designated by the purchaser) or distributed to "any servicemember" through the Air Force Aid Society, American Red Cross, Fisher House Foundation Inc., Navy-Marine Corps Relief, USO or Soldiers Family Assistance Center. (Courtesy of AAFES News Service)
Something to consider for the troops and/or their families for Christmas.
What a wonderful idea! My kids aren’t overseas, but it might
be a nice gift for them too.
....and to send to troops in harm’s way!
Seems like a neat idea. (Then again, I may be a bit biased when it comes to anything that let’s me go shopping, lol!)
What a grand idea! My family and I give “charity” gifts to each other for Christmas in each others’ name. :)
Nice try, no cigar.
(Someone with two retirements, maybe three, needs MY help?)
By going to the same site, you can also send phone cards to a loved one serving overseas. You need to know the loved one’s address, the AAFES/AT&T cards cannot be sent to ‘any soldier’.
You can also send them to a troop support organization if you wish.
Check the tagline...
Mixed feelings on this one...I certainly don't need the help, and I rarely shop at the PX. They tend to carry a lot of exclusive (and relatively expensive) merchandise.
OTOH, if you're unable to work after military retirement, or you're medically retired, being able to shop at the PX is a bennie. On some necessities they have great prices - so low that even the dollar stores can't come close.
There’s a difference between retirees and veterans. Most folks who are receiving a retirement pension are doing so due to longevity of service - a minimum of 20 years.
The officer you mention is more than likely medically retired; and yes, is eligible to shop on Post.
Many more veterans left service under honorable conditions but with less time served than that necessary to retire. They do not receive shopping privileges.
Whole 'nother story, valid disability benefits are earned but medical retirement might be otherwise.
[I have friends still trying to get above ten percent for life threatening disease - that is another whole 'nother story.]
My gripe is the retired LtC or MSg collecting retirement equal to my salary, plus a second salary and eventual pension from the same "major aerospace company".
THAT is someone who does not need my contribution.
BTTT
In practical terms, these contributions are going to go to whomever you send them.
From your comments, I’ve pretty well figured out who you would not choose.
FWIW, the last time I used this service I sent phone cards to a Marine Warrant in charge of a heavy helicopter maintenance company.
Put that way, it doesn't quite sound right, either. But it's true. My nephew is a veteran with a medical discharge. He receives a small monthly check, but does not have PX privileges.
His dad left after 15 years. Again, no PX privileges.
"USO, Arlington VA" and anything "American Red Cross" do not build confidence.
To be able use the commissary/PX/NEX et cetera, one must be active duty, retired after 20 years, or 100% permanent and totally disabled...
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