Varying levels of exchange support available to entire military community

Published Feb. 25, 2010
Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- When a contractor, family member, Department of Defense civilian or other visitors onto Dyess Air Force Base, the first words out of their mouth will typically be, "who can shop at the base exchange?"

Army & Air Force Exchange Services fast food and convenience stores are open to virtually anyone. In fact, DoD policy allows all federal government employees, and even installation visitors, to dine at AAFES restaurants as long as their orders are consumed on the installation. Furthermore, anyone can purchase consumables from a Shoppette, an option that is especially valuable late at night considering the Shoppette is open until midnight.

"The 'Snack Avenue' inside most AAFES Shoppettes offers a robust selection of consumables," said General Manager Mike Patmon. "Candy bars, soft drinks and even hot dogs can be picked up by just about anyone with business on the installation."

Exchange service authorization begins with the House Armed Services Committee and ultimately ends with the Dyess commander. The guidelines, as prescribed by Army Regulation 215-8/Air Force Instruction 34-211 (I) and the Armed Services Exchange Regulations, Department of Defense Instruction 1330.21, require proper identification of authorized customers, including uniformed personnel and members of the Reserve Components and family members, applicable DoD civilians, exchange associates, retirees and their dependents who possess a basic exchange purchase privilege authorization card.

Anyone who believes they may qualify for exchange benefits, including access to the main base exchange, can contact Heather Rose at (325) 692-8996 for additional guidance as well as information regarding possible exceptions at Dyess AFB