Reservists Denied Use of 'Fighter' Card at Base Store
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Reservists cannot use their "Fighter" benefit cards at the "Keveret" convenience store on a northern military base, as indicated by a sign at the store. The "Fighter" card, intended for leisure and recreation, is not accepted at Keveret stores because they are classified as supermarkets. This restriction has led to frustration among reservists who already faced difficulties using the card at other vendors.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Reservists cannot use their "Fighter" benefit cards at the "Keveret" store on a northern military base.
- A sign at the store stated, "Dear reservists, you are not receiving Fighter at Keveret, don't ask us why."
- The "Fighter" card is a benefit loaded with thousands of shekels for reservists.
- Keveret stores are classified as supermarkets, restricting card usage.
- The Ministry of Defense confirmed the card is for leisure, not supermarket purchases.
Reservists called up for duty are unable to use the "Fighter" card, a benefit intended to thank them for their service, at the "Keveret" convenience store located on a northern military base. A sign posted at the store entrance reads, "Dear reservists, you are not receiving Fighter at Keveret, don't ask us why, we don't know either. Thanks and have a good day."
A reservist shared a photo of the sign on Facebook, expressing frustration that while the "Fighter" card exists and Keveret stores are present on training bases, the card cannot be used at these specific stores. The "Fighter" card is a reloadable voucher issued by the IDF, Ministry of Defense, and Ministry of Finance, operated by the credit card company CAL. It is loaded with thousands of shekels based on unit classification and actual reserve duty days, functioning like a credit card for designated categories such as leisure, recreation, equipment, and restaurants.
Previously, reservists had already complained about difficulties finding businesses that accept the card and a shrinking selection of participating vendors. Keveret, a chain of convenience stores for soldiers run by the Association for the Wellbeing of Soldiers, functions as a mini-market and general store selling snacks, tobacco, toiletries, and military-related items. However, its website prominently features clothing sales rather than food promotions.
Keveret stated that the card is restricted to restaurants and attractions, not retail use, as per a Ministry of Defense decision. The Ministry of Defense confirmed this, explaining that the "Fighter" card is intended for leisure and recreation activities, not for purchasing food items in supermarkets. Therefore, since Keveret stores are classified as supermarkets, the card cannot be used there.