Privileges
Space-A travel and base access abroad
What military retirees and disabled veterans can actually use overseas.
Space-A travel
Military retirees fly Space-A in Category VI, including to overseas destinations. Veterans rated 100% permanent and total also fly in Category VI, but only within the continental U.S. and to and from Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa. Foreign destinations aren't included, and their dependents aren't eligible.
Commissary, exchange and MWR
Since 2020, all veterans with a service-connected rating, Purple Heart recipients, former POWs and primary family caregivers can shop on U.S. installations. Overseas, access isn't guaranteed. Host-nation laws and Status of Forces Agreements often limit or prevent it.
Country examples
- Germany: retirees need a German customs "Pink Card" and can buy only non-rationed items.
- South Korea: retiree purchases are rationed with monthly caps.
- Everywhere else: ask the installation's Pass and ID office.
Last reviewed November 2026.