Malmstrom/Hutterites

Here is the piece about Hutterites at Malmstrom from the High Plains Warrior (see page 3). Since I am not a member of the military, the significance may be lost on me a bit. Nevertheless, it has been raised a couple times in the comments, so I went out and tracked it down. Perhaps a reader can provide us with more detail?

Query: I've been in the commissary numerous times and have seen one particular lady bring Hutterites into the commissary to buy groceries. I talked to one of the baggers and she told me that they saw her yesterday at three different times, bringing Hutterites into the commissary and buying groceries. Also, at Christmas time, I was also in the commissary and I saw them pointing out what items they want. How can they shop in our facility when their religion prevents them from joining the military?

Response: In October 1999, the Department of Defense established a policy that would allow visitors to accompany authorized shoppers into the commissary. This policy did not allow visitors to make commissary purchases. In short this policy was adapted so friends and relatives could accompany authorized patrons when they shop. Our directive states, Authorized ommissary patrons who make purchases for others who are not entitled to do so risks sanctions associated with the abuse of commissary privileges. Anyone who has reason to believe that an authorized patron is abusing this privilege may provide the specifics of such matter to appropriate installation authorities.

Any patron has the right to bring any friend or relative with them regardless of religious faith or otherwise. The problem actually lies with the authorized patron, knowingly making purchases for those not entitled to the benefit. We are diligent in making an effort to see this does not happen. Although there are times we may suspect it happens, we can only confront them if certain criteria is met, i.e. splitting orders at the checkout.

In this case, we are reviewing transaction data to isolate this incident and possibly find a ocument or check with this patron's name and address. We are also interviewing baggers and cashiers for as many details as possible. We will then contact the individual and inform them that they are abusing the privilege and are at risk of losing shopping privileges. Any further actions would be up to the proper installation authorities.

We are here at your service to provide you with your number one benefit. Please at anytime you encounter this or any other problem, report it immediately to the management staff on duty. We will do our very best to rectify any situation you encounter.