How a Government Shutdown Would Affect Military Members Overseas

The U.S. Department of Defense has not yet confirmed whether military commissaries would be closed during a potential government shutdown. The situation is particularly concerning to Glen Head native Lena White, who is currently in Spain where her husband is stationed.

White and her family rely on a commissary for food and supplies.

"For most items this would not be such a big deal but for items such as American baby formula/food and specialty items that aren't available in Spanish grocery stores it poses a problem," said Lena White. "We may have to rely on the economy for our groceries and with the exchange rate the way it is, it will end up costing us a great deal more than usual."

White added that they will not be notified about any closures until after midnight Friday into Saturday morning.

The Defense Commissary Agency website did not have any updates at this time.

The Office of Personnel Management will provide additional pertinent information for federal employees as the week progresses.

“Additional information...will be posted on the department’s main website as soon as it becomes available," a press release stated.