Return to the "POINTER VIEW"
                         April 11, 2003

By Kathy Eastwood
Staff Writer

The Army and Air Force Exchange Service has announced a new method to support soldiers and airmen with "CertifiChecks."

CertifiChecks are merchant or area specific gift certificates that anyone can purchase on line or by telephone via check or credit card. They are redeemable in any PX or BX throughout the world.

"The program began on March 21," said Allan Heasty, general manager of the West Point and Fort Hamilton exchanges and the Stewart BX. "While anyone may purchase the checks, only authorized AAFES customers can redeem them."

Those interested can purchase CertifiChecks 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.aafes.com or by calling a toll free telephone number at 1-877-770-GIFT.

"The CertifiChecks can be purchased in denominations of $10 and $20," Heasty explained. "The cost of the certificates are $4.95, which covers the costs of printing, mailing and handling of up to 20 certificates per order, if they are going to the same address.

"Delivery usually takes four to 10 days, possibly longer if going overseas," he added.

The West Point Commissary has a similar program that has been operational for nearly two years, according to Catherine Mason, West Point Commissary director.

"We use CertifiChecks for our "Gift of Groceries" program where people can help military families by purchasing commissary gift certificates. They can be purchased at www.commissaries.com or through the toll free number (listed above)," she said.

Purchasers can donate the certificates to military families through a few charitable organizations or give it to them directly, she added.