I’ve been shopping at NAS Whidbey Island commissary for the past 28 years and have always been treated with great care, politeness and thoughtfulness.

Perhaps it is just luck on my part. But many of the baggers go out of their way to do their job correctly. Over the years, some have become like old friends. Reenie (Irene) comes immediately to mind. By now she knows how I like my groceries packed and could probably come into my kitchen and put them away for me.

I’m too disabled now with neurological problems to do much shopping on my own (although my fellow military family shoppers are never too busy to help me). I guess kindness and manners exist where one responds in kind.

Incidentally, our “favorite” Safeway bagger placed a leaky milk carton on its side at the bottom of a paper bag. The back of our van will never be the same! And Safeway pays to train them so the customer isn’t supposed to tip.

Give me the commissary any day!

Carol Byng

Coupeville