This is a clear indication that the plan still has a ways to go before Reservists sign on. NERA recommends that each member seek guidance from Social Security and the Dept. of Veterans Affairs representatives, before an SBP election is made. Only during the last 20-25 years have there been any meaningful improvements to the plan. Even then, you received one shopping day for each drill point. Reservists were also limited as to what they could purchase and the quantities that they could purchase.
Reservists now receive unlimited exchange privilege.
Prior to the early 70's, reservists were not allowed to wear gold uniform accessories, unless the gold was earned by 12 years on active duty with good conduct. It was not unusual to see senior Reserve LPOs on AT without the customary gold rating badge and hash marks. This obviously had a serious impact on Reservists morale. NERA led the way to DoD authorization for Reservists to wear the gold. Following years of hard work culminating in the early 90s, Reservists were allowed 12 days per year in commissary facilities.