American military retirees residing in Turkey are facing a significant change as they're set to lose access to U.S. bases in the country starting October 1st. This decision, communicated by Air Force Col. Calvin B. Powell, commander of the 39th Air Base Wing at Incirlik Air Base, will impact approximately 121 retirees and cut them off from essential services and resources.

The loss of access means retirees will no longer be able to utilize on-base amenities such as commissaries offering American groceries, Army and Air Force Exchange Service locations providing familiar products, and American post office boxes. This last point is particularly concerning for retirees who rely on these post office boxes for receiving medications and casting ballots in U.S. elections.

Incirlik Air Base, Turkey passenger terminal. (U.S. Air Force)

One retiree, identified as Michael, expressed concerns about the reliability of the Turkish postal system for vital shipments like medication, estimating a significant failure rate. He also highlighted the importance of military post offices for ensuring votes reach their destination, a concern echoed by other retirees.

The decision to revoke base access, while attributed to U.S.-Turkey bilateral agreements by Col. Powell, has sparked speculation among retirees that it might be a cost-saving measure. The lifetime access to military installations and services has been a long-standing benefit for military retirees, particularly those living abroad. Michael and other retirees question the sudden change, especially given the lack of perceived security concerns in Turkey.

The Commissary at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. (Military One Source)

Similar restrictions are being considered at other bases worldwide, including Aviano Air Base in Italy and bases in the Philippines, though no final decisions have been announced. Retirees argue that access has been granted for years without issue, raising questions about the true motives behind the changes. Furthermore, they contend that allowing retiree access is beneficial for bases, citing the economic activity generated by retirees using their paychecks on base and supporting local vendors operating within exchange facilities.

The Main Exchange at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. (Military One Source)

Both Col. Powell and the Pentagon have not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.