Varying levels of exchange support available to entire military community

Bring a contractor, family member, DoD civilian or other visitor onto Fort Belvoir and the first words out of their mouth typically are, "who can shop the exchange?"
While authorizations governing who can buy merchandise and services at the PX often apply to a chosen few, the doors to AAFES' fast food and convenience stores, including Church's Chicken, Taco Bell, Burger King and Shoppettes are open to virtually anyone looking for a quick bite to eat.
In fact, DoD policy allows all federal government employees, and even installation visitors, to dine at AAFES restaurants as long as the food is consumed on the installation. Furthermore, anyone can purchase single-serve consumables from a Shoppette.
"The 'Snack Avenue' inside most AAFES Shoppettes offers a robust selection of single-serve consumables," said Rick Talbot, general manager. "Candy bars, soft drinks and even sandwiches 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 Fort Belvoir 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 he or she may qualify for exchange benefits, including access to the main PX, can call 703-806-4371 for additional guidance.