1412 Greenbrier Pkwy 105 A, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
### Introduction / Overview
For eligible service members, veterans, and their families in Virginia, the Coast Guard Exchange (CGX) in Chesapeake represents a unique and valuable department store experience. Unlike typical civilian retailers, the CGX operates with a distinct mission: to provide high-quality products and services at competitive prices, with earnings supporting morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) programs for Coast Guard personnel. This makes it more than just a place to shop; it's a vital part of the support structure for those who serve and their dependents.
This particular Coast Guard Exchange location at 1589 Crossways Blvd in Chesapeake offers a range of goods that cater specifically to the military community. Customer reviews provide insight into its primary attractions and areas for consideration. One customer enthusiastically noted, "We love going to the store when we need liquor and beer because that's the one thing they have a lot of." This highlights a significant draw for many patrons. Another reviewer appreciated the convenience for uniform needs: "All your uniform needs without having to drive through the gate of the base." However, some feedback also touched on accessibility and stock, with a concern about allowing phone IDs for entry and a wish for "larger sized civilians clothing if your six foot you not finding civies in here in unless your real skinny." These comments paint a picture of a store that strongly serves its niche but also has specific operational considerations and product availability that eligible patrons should be aware of.
### Location and Accessibility
The Coast Guard Exchange in Chesapeake is strategically located to serve the military community in the region. You can find this department store at:
1589 Crossways Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
This address places it on Crossways Boulevard, a recognizable road in Chesapeake, generally offering easy access by car. A significant aspect of the Coast Guard Exchange, and all military exchanges, is that access is restricted to authorized patrons. This typically includes active duty military personnel, reservists, retirees, veterans with service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, former POWs, Medal of Honor recipients, and their eligible dependents, as well as certain DoD and DHS civilian employees and Coast Guard Auxiliarists. Patrons are required to present a valid military ID or other authorized identification for entry and purchases. While this means it's not open to the general public, for those in the eligible Virginia military community, its location outside a guarded base entrance (as suggested by a review regarding uniform needs) can be a significant convenience, eliminating the need to drive through a security gate to access these services.
### Services Offered
As a department store specifically for the military community, the Coast Guard Exchange offers a range of products and services designed to meet the unique needs of its patrons. While specific offerings can vary, here's a general overview based on public information and customer feedback:
Uniform Shop: A primary offering, allowing service members to purchase and sometimes get fitted for their Coast Guard uniforms and related accessories without needing to go onto a military installation.
General Merchandise: Similar to a civilian department store, the CGX typically stocks a variety of general goods, which can include electronics, home goods, small appliances, personal care items, and potentially some limited apparel for civilians (though sizing may vary).
Liquor and Beer Sales: As noted by a customer, this location is known for having a significant selection of liquor and beer. These items are often sold at competitive, tax-free prices, offering a considerable benefit to eligible patrons.
Convenience Items: Depending on the store's size, there might be a section for convenience items, snacks, and beverages for quick grab-and-go needs.
Tax-Free Shopping: A major benefit across all Exchange systems is the ability to shop tax-free, which translates into direct savings for military families on eligible purchases.
It's important for eligible Virginia residents to remember that the inventory and specific services are tailored to the military community and supported by the Coast Guard's MWR programs.
### Features / Highlights
The Coast Guard Exchange in Chesapeake possesses several key features that make it particularly advantageous for its authorized patrons in Virginia:
Exclusive Access and Benefits: Shopping at the CGX is a benefit for service members, veterans, and their families, offering access to products and prices not available to the general public. This includes tax-free shopping, which provides direct financial savings.
Uniform Availability: For Coast Guard personnel, the convenience of purchasing uniforms and related gear at a dedicated, accessible location is a significant advantage, often avoiding the need to enter a secured base.
Competitive Pricing: Exchanges are designed to offer goods and services at competitive prices, often lower than civilian retailers, further enhancing the financial benefits for military families.
Liquor and Beer Selection: The noted wide selection of liquor and beer is a specific highlight for many customers, especially given the potential for tax-free pricing.
Support for MWR Programs: A crucial aspect of shopping at the CGX is that 100% of the earnings are invested back into military Quality-of-Life programs, directly benefiting service members and their families through recreational activities, educational support, and other welfare initiatives. This means every purchase contributes to the broader military community.
Community Hub: For many military families, the Exchange serves as a community gathering point, offering a familiar environment and tailored services that acknowledge their unique lifestyle.
### Promotions or Special Offers
The Coast Guard Exchange, like other military exchanges, regularly offers promotions and special deals to provide additional value to its patrons. While specific sales rotate, eligible Virginia customers can anticipate various types of offers:
Weekly and Monthly Sales: CGX locations typically have weekly or monthly advertised sales on various product categories, from electronics and household goods to apparel and personal care items.
Seasonal Promotions: Look for significant discounts around major holidays (e.g., Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans Day, Christmas) and during seasonal changes when new merchandise arrives.
Military Exclusive Pricing: Beyond general sales, many items are inherently priced lower than civilian retailers due to the tax-free status and the Exchange's mission to provide affordable goods.
Special Events: The CGX might host special sales events or "tent sales" where a larger variety of items are offered at deeply discounted prices.
Online Promotions: Eligible patrons can also often access exclusive deals through the official shopCGX.com website, which may include special online-only discounts or free shipping offers.
Credit Card Benefits: Using a military-specific credit card, such as the MILITARY STAR® card, often provides additional discounts, special financing options, or bonus points.
For Virginia's military community, staying informed about these promotions through in-store signage, the CGX website, or military community newsletters can help maximize their shopping benefits.
### Contact Information
For direct inquiries about the Coast Guard Exchange in Chesapeake or to verify eligibility, here is their contact information:
Address: 1589 Crossways Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
Phone: (757) 965-3880
It is always advisable for eligible patrons to carry their valid military identification when visiting. For broader eligibility questions or general inquiries about the Coast Guard Exchange system, the national contact information for CGX Headquarters is also available (e.g., 1-800-572-0230 or shopCGX@cgexchange.org), providing comprehensive support for the military community.
### Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals
For the authorized military personnel, veterans, and their families residing in Virginia, particularly around Chesapeake, the Coast Guard Exchange at Crossways Blvd is an exceptionally suitable and valuable department store. Its suitability stems directly from its mission and the unique benefits it provides to this specific local community. The ability to shop tax-free translates into real financial savings on a wide range of goods, from everyday essentials to special purchases like uniforms and popular liquor selections.
The convenience of having a dedicated uniform shop outside of a secured base is a significant time-saver for service members. Beyond the financial and practical advantages, every purchase made at the CGX directly contributes to vital morale, welfare, and recreation programs, enhancing the quality of life for the entire Coast Guard family. While access is exclusive, for those eligible in Virginia, the Coast Guard Exchange offers more than just retail therapy; it's a supportive hub that understands and caters to their unique needs, making it an indispensable resource for the local military community.