Class 6, officially known as Class VI, in the U.S. Army refers to a specific category of personal demand items available for sale on military installations, primarily known for alcohol sales. These stores provide service members and their families with access to non-military essential goods.
Understanding Class VI Supplies
Within the U.S. Army's comprehensive supply classification system, Class VI designates "personal demand items." These are goods that are considered non-military sales items, catering to the individual needs and desires of personnel rather than direct mission support. While the broader category can encompass various personal goods, the retail outlets associated with Class VI are predominantly recognized for their primary function of selling alcoholic beverages.
Items Found in Class Six Stores
Class Six stores offer a selection of goods focused on personal consumption and leisure. The core inventory revolves around alcohol, complemented by related items to enhance these sales.
Common items available include:
- Alcoholic Beverages: The principal focus, encompassing a range of beer, wine, and spirits.
- Mixers and Soft Drinks: Non-alcoholic beverages like soda, juices, and other mixers intended to accompany alcoholic drinks.
- Cigarettes and Tobacco Products: Often stocked due to consistent personal demand among consumers.
- Drinking Accessories: Items such as drinking cups, bottle openers, and other related paraphernalia that facilitate the consumption of beverages.
| Category | Examples | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Beverages | Beer, Wine, Spirits | Alcohol sales |
| Soda, Juices, Energy Drinks | Mixers and general non-alcoholic refreshment | |
| Tobacco Products | Cigarettes, Cigars, Chewing Tobacco | Personal consumption |
| Related Accessories | Drinking cups, Bottle openers, Coasters | Enhancing the consumption experience and convenience |
Distinguishing Class Six from Other Military Retailers
While other military retail outlets, such as a Post Exchange (PX) or Base Exchange (BX), also offer various personal demand items, the key differentiator for Class Six stores is their dedicated and primary focus on alcohol sales. PX/BX stores typically provide a much broader spectrum of general merchandise, including electronics, clothing, groceries, and household goods. Class Six stores, in contrast, are specialized retail points concentrating on a specific set of personal demand items, with alcohol being central to their operational identity.
For further details on military supply classifications, you can refer to information regarding Class 6 in military logistics.
Purpose and Impact on Military Life
Class Six stores serve a vital role by providing service members with a convenient and often tax-exempt source for purchasing personal demand items, particularly alcohol, directly on base. This accessibility can contribute to overall morale and offer a familiar retail experience within the military community. By meeting certain recreational and social needs of personnel, these stores integrate into the fabric of daily life on military installations.
