Each military installation is like a city, with its own supermarket — the commissary — and its own department store — the exchange. Before you buy, it pays to check prices at the commissary or exchange; these military-only stores offer some of the best deals. Here’s an introduction to how the stores work.
Tobacco prices may jump 5 percent in military stores
Defense officials are discussing a proposal to raise tobacco prices in military stores by 5 percent — eliminating, in effect, any on-base discount for tobacco products.
QRMC proposes military discounts at grocery stores
The idea of national and regional grocers giving military discounts might be welcomed by families living off base — but one military advocate worries about how such a move might affect the...
Something’s brewing at the commissary
House lawmakers want defense officials to study the pros and cons of selling beer and wine in commissaries, and possibly do a limited pilot test in the stores.
Commissary chief to retire next month
After three years as director of the Defense Commissary Agency, Patrick Nixon will retire Oct. 27, commissary officials said.
Anti-porn groups decry exchange sale policy
Upset that the Pentagon allows military exchanges to sell adult magazines such as Penthouse, Celebrity Skin, Playboy’s Vixens and others, more than 40 anti-pornography groups plan to appeal to...
Other Pay: Commissaries
Commissaries are military supermarkets that sell all items at cost plus a 5 percent surcharge. The Defense Commissary Agency oversees 259 stores worldwide on Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps...
Other benefits: Exchanges
Exchanges are the military’s version of department stores. Soldiers call it a PX, for post exchange. Airmen say BX, for base exchange. Sailors call it a ship’s store when afloat and NEX...