Can I use the commissary as a 100% disabled USAF vet?

Military Law Discussions
1

Hey everyone! I’m a 100% disabled vet from the USAF. Just wondering if that qualifies me to shop at the commissary at Portsmouth Naval Ship Yard… anyone know?

2

Yes, you can! With a 100% disability rating, you’re eligible for commissary access. You’ll need a Veteran Health ID Card (VHIC).

3

Basil said:
Yes, you can! With a 100% disability rating, you’re eligible for commissary access. You’ll need a Veteran Health ID Card (VHIC).

Awesome, thanks! Do you know where I get the VHIC?

4

@LegalEagle1
No problem! Head to your local VA medical center. They’ll take your photo for the card, and you’ll get it in the mail in about a week.

5

I went through this recently! Once you have your VHIC, just show it at the gate along with a state ID, and you’re good to go.

6

ned said:
I went through this recently! Once you have your VHIC, just show it at the gate along with a state ID, and you’re good to go.

Great to know, thanks! Is the VHIC only for commissary or can it be used for other base services too?

7

@LegalEagle1
Good question! You can use it for other base exchanges too, not just the commissary.

8

Just a heads-up, some bases might ask you to register the VHIC at their visitor center first. Not sure if Portsmouth does, but worth checking!

9

Mary said:
Just a heads-up, some bases might ask you to register the VHIC at their visitor center first. Not sure if Portsmouth does, but worth checking!

Thanks for the tip! I’ll ask when I go.

10

If you’re not already signed up for VA health care, that’s step one to get your VHIC. You can apply online or at any VA medical center.

11

Zeek said:
If you’re not already signed up for VA health care, that’s step one to get your VHIC. You can apply online or at any VA medical center.

Good to know! I’m already enrolled, so I’ll just go in for the card.

12

Can someone tell me what a VHIC is? New to this whole process!

13

Ben said:
Can someone tell me what a VHIC is? New to this whole process!

Sure thing! VHIC stands for Veteran Health Identification Card. It’s issued by the VA, and 100% disabled vets can use it for base access.

14

Ben said:
Can someone tell me what a VHIC is? New to this whole process!

Got it, thanks! Guess I’ll be making a trip to the VA soon.