VETERANS DAY: DeCA honors America’s veterans on Nov. 11, and announces photo contest to showcase their service and sacrifice

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FORT LEE, Va. -- As the nation prepares to observe Veterans Day on Nov. 11, the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) seeks to honor America's veterans by ensuring they are aware of the benefit they've earned, said the agency's senior enlisted advisor to the director.

"The commissary benefit is a significant part of the overall military compensation package," Navy Command Master Chief Mario Rivers said. "As we celebrate those who have served in our military this Veterans Day, we rededicate ourselves to providing the best commissary benefit possible."

As part of its celebration of military veterans, DeCA announced the Gratitude 100 Veterans Photo Contest where patrons can submit a photo of a veteran (it can be you, a family member, or a loved one) for a chance to win a $25 Commissary Gift Card. There will be 100 possible winners. Patrons can enter and get more information at shop.commissaries.com/gratitude100. Submit entries by Nov. 30, 2025.

"We can never say enough about what our veterans mean to this nation," Rivers said. "However, through this photo contest, we hope to showcase them and recognize their service and sacrifice."

DeCA's mission centers around service to the military community. Rivers said Veterans Day is a reminder to the agency of its obligation to deliver to eligible patrons the premier value and shopping experience they've earned. "Whether it's huge savings, dietitian-approved products or online shopping, your commissary benefit exists for you."

Since joining DeCA in 2023, Rivers has made it his mission to get the word out about the commissary benefit and what it means for millions of eligible customers.

"It's a fantastic perk, and I want to make sure everyone who's earned it knows about it and can easily take advantage of the savings," Rivers said. "In my opinion, shopping at the commissary goes beyond savings - it's about community and a benefit that acknowledges service and sacrifice."

Since 2020, the newest commissary-eligible patron groups include disabled veterans, Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war and their certified caregivers. Rivers noted that DeCA is working to meet these patrons where they are, which involves working with veteran organizations, like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to help amplify benefit awareness.

"Veteran service organizations, or VSOs, are a natural partner for us. By working with the VSOs, we can tap into their existing networks and credibility with former service members," he added. "I'd like to see us collaborate more on co-branded promotions and awareness campaigns. Partnering with VSOs is a win-win, as they have established trust with veteran communities, and we can leverage their channels to reach eligible patrons who may not know about the expanded benefit."

For more information about DeCA, current promotions and sales, visit https://corp.commissaries.com/.

-DeCA-