HAMPTON, Virginia – Imagine walking into a store, taking something off the shelf and walking away with it for free.
In most cases, this is not the reality – unless you are a soldier shopping at Joint Base Langley-Eustis.
The base is one of many across the country that support military members through the Airman’s Attic.
The Airman’s Attic is a place where military members can shop for free and replenish their supplies of needed items.
Yes, free.
Families and individuals can receive kitchen supplies, electronics, children’s toys, clothing and more.
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“(Let’s say) you work in maintenance and you get some oil on your boots. You can buy a pair of boots for $70 or come to Airman’s Attic, maybe we have your size,” says Brian Saunders.
Brian Saunders is the manager of the Airman’s Attic and a veteran himself. He says he remembers how tight money was when he first joined the military.
For this reason, the Airman’s Attic is aimed at young, active-duty soldiers.
“We serve E1 through E5 ranks and these are all active duty soldiers. Each month they are allowed to purchase 12 items and one large item. (A) large item is usually anything that costs $50 or more and out of their 12 items, 10 pieces of clothing are one item,” Saunders said. “We want to make sure they get the most for their money when they come here and shop because this is where they’re going to save money.”
As we passed by, Airman First Class Skylar Ellis was shopping.
“Today I was just looking around a bit. Sometimes I like to come here and see what uniforms they have. Today I was able to find a fleece. It’s a bit hot outside at the moment, but I’m sure it will be nice for the winter months,” she says.
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Ellis also says that many of her classmates stop by when they move in or out of the dorms.
While the Airman’s Attic is open to junior teams every Tuesday and Thursday, it is open to all teams on the last day of the month.
“You can see how busy we are today. It’s really nice to see the donations coming in,” says Sara Dreano.
Sara Dreano, who has been volunteering for 21 years, says they help up to 55 families during their three-hour opening hours.
“I know that the Airman’s Attic is doing what it’s supposed to do – (and that’s) giving back to the community,” she says.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for at Airman’s Attic and have a few dollars to spare, you can also shop at the second-hand store next door.
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You purchase items at a discount and all the money goes back to the community and the Langley Spouses Club.
The Langley Spouses Club is a private organization focused on fostering relationships between spouses in the JBLE community. The club’s primary source of income is the base’s thrift store, which is funded entirely by donations.
All proceeds benefit the Langley Spouses Club Welfare Fund, which supports Langley and the Hampton Roads community.
Thanks to these funds, the Langley Spouses Club was able to award $8,500 in scholarships last year and financially support numerous base events and local school activities.
“I’m happy to be able to help the Airmen and the families they bring with them. It’s like a blessing,” says Sam Zisk, the manager of the thrift store.
Buyer Erica Wagner says it’s also cost-effective for her budget.
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“Inflation is overwhelming us all,” she says, laughing.
It is important to note that nothing goes to waste at Airman’s Attic. The store partners with the Salvation Army, so anything they cannot keep is given to the Salvation Army.
Langley Chapel has been a great help, especially for families with young children.
While I was there, they dropped off 3,200 diapers to distribute to families.
On these shopping days, donations from civilians and military personnel will be accepted during opening hours.
Airman’s Attic is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is located in the Community Commons building next to the CDC.
Click here to go to the Facebook page.
