Why can't retirees use the facilities in Germany?

CW4 Robert C. — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 07:45:50 -0500

Now when I was stationed in Germany as a Spc and SSG, some of the older NCO's would say that all the AFRC and AAFES around the world would be open to us if we retire. Well I found out just recently that we cannot use the German facilities. I heard it was because of the SOFA agreement, but how should that affect any of us retirees? If we did the time we should be able to use any facility in the world as a retired member of service. This disturbs me greatly, as I love Germany, my wife is German and I would love to go again and see the sites. But If I can't then it is not worth my time. So any body got any ideas?

Response by 1SG Charles Hunter made Feb 21 at 2019 9:29 AM

1SG Charles Hunter — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 09:29:41 -0500

My understanding is that retirees are allowed to use US Forces recreation centers (AFRC) worldwide. SOFA (status of forces agreements) dictate whether retirees are allowed access to AAFES and commissary facilities. Actually, even active duty personnel not assigned within the country are not allowed PX and commissary privileges in Germany. You can still use AFRC and get Space-A travel on military aircraft.

Response by LTC Tim Ellis made Mar 1 at 2019 1:51 PM

LTC Tim Ellis — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 13:51:15 -0500

Due to the SOFA agreement, the facilities in Germany are for SM stationed in Germany. That change occurred several years ago when the SOFA was renegotiated.