MCA&F FAQ's

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[Member Services] [Magazine Subscriptions] [Affiliate Partner Benefits] [Marine Corps Service Related] [MCA&F Retail] [Customer Service] [Ecommerce] [Retail/Birthday Ball]

Member Services

Please note that Member Services phone representatives are available to assist you at 1-866-622-1775, Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

1. What are the Benefits of Membership?

2. How do I join and obtain information about the association?

3. How do I find my membership number?

4. When I renew MCA&F membership, will I receive a new membership card?

5. Can you change my address using my membership number?

6. How do I know when my MCA&F Membership will expire?

7. How am I notified when it is time to renew my MCA&F Membership?

8. How can I make updates to my personal information in my membership record (i.e. Rank, address, phone number, services status, email address)?

9. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

Subscriptions (Leatherneck and Gazette Magazines)

1. When will I receive my first issue of the Leatherneck and/or Marine Corps Gazette magazine?

2. If I move and submit a change of address, when will I receive my magazine(s) at my new address?

3. When should I expect to receive my magazine each month?

4. Are back issues available? How do I order them?

5. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

Affiliate Partner Benefits

1. How do I apply for life and health insurance?

2. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

Marine Corps Service-Related Information

1. How may I contact Marines with whom I have served?

2. How do I apply for the Combat Action Ribbon and Korean Commemorative Medal for service during the Korean War?

3. How do I get a copy of a Marine's service record?

4. How can I determine awards a Marine has earned, and how can I get replacement medals?

5. How do I find unit reports and histories of units in which a Marine has served?

6. How can I get a copy or get a corrected copy of my DD 214?

7. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

MCA&F Retail

Please note that MCA&F Store phone representatives are available to assist you at 1-888-237-7683, Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

1. Do MCA&F members receive discounts on merchandise?

2. How do I know if I am a member?

3. When will I receive my order?

4. Do you offer express shipping?

5. May I have a gift sent?

6. How do I place an order for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball?

7. What credit cards do you accept?

8. What are your hours?

9. What is your return policy?

10. May I order online?

Customer Service

1. Do you have a catalog?

2. Can I order a uniform over the phone?

3. How long will my order take to ship out?

4. How long will it take to get a commissioning package?

5. How do I get my tracking information on my order?

6. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

ECommerce

Please note that MCA&F Store phone representatives are available to assist you at 1-888-237-7683, Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

1. How do I change my account information for the Marine Shop online?

2. How do I take advantage of Member Pricing?

3. How do I keep a list of the things that I might want to buy, when I'm just browsing around right now?

4. How do I find out about specials, sales, clearances and new items?

5. How can I order Special Services and/ or Uniforms?

6. What is your Shipping Policy?

7. What is your Return Policy?

8. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

Retail - Birthday Ball

1. When is my order due?

2. How much is personalization?

3. What is the minimum order for personalization?

4. What can be put on a glass?

5. How are the glasses shipped?

6. Is there a quantity discount on glasses?

7. What is the payment policy?

8. What kind of receipt will be provided?

9. How do I calculate shipping?

10. Do I have to pay tax?

11. What is the average turn around time on an order?

12. Do you ship to PO boxes?

13. Can items be returned?

14. Can't find what you're looking for? Send us a question.

Member Services

1. What are the Benefits of Membership?
   
   MCA&F Membership offers a variety of benefits:
   1. A subscription to Marine Corps Gazette and/or Leatherneck magazine. These distinctive publications are dedicated to fostering the spirit and preserving the traditions of the Marine Corps, and through your membership, you are also supporting these endeavors.
   2. You can select a printed copy of one or both magazines, or you can choose the Online Only option. The Online Only option does not include a printed magazine, but gives you access to both digital format magazines via the Internet.

   Marine Corps Gazette is the professional journal for all Marines, dedicated to advancing knowledge, interest, skills, and espirit within the Corps.
   Leatherneck is the premier magazine of the United States Marine Corps, featuring articles on the rich history and traditions of the Corps.

   1. Opportunities to maintain a connection to the Marine Corps and fellow marines.
   2. Group Insurance available for qualifying members.
   3. Invitations to special events.
   4. Member Value Pricing at MCA&F retail locations and online at The Marine Shop.
   5. Computer Discounts at Dell and Apple.
   6. Discounts on Military historical tours.
   7. Car Rental Discounts.
   8. Special offers and Discounts through our retail partners such as Amazon.com. These partners can be found and accessed through our website at www.mca-marines.org.

   9. How do I join and obtain information about the MCA&F?
      
      For those interested in joining, you may use our web site (www.mca-marines.org). Simply scroll up and click the Join/Renew button and we will take you through the process. To speak with an MCA&F Member Services representative to sign up or get additional membership information, please call us at 1-866-622-1775.

   10. How do I find my membership number?

       Your membership number is available on the label of your print edition magazine cover. You can also call our Member Services Department to get you your membership number. You can reach our Member Services department at 1-866-622-1775.
       

   11. When I renew MCA&F membership, will I receive a new membership card?
       
       We do not send out new MCA&F membership cards for membership renewals, but if you require a replacement card you may call us at 1-866-622-1775 and we will be happy to send you one.

   12. Can you change my address using my membership number?
       
       Yes. You can actually update your own contact information in your MCA&F membership record by logging in as a member at www.mca-marines.org . We can also make the updates for you if you prefer. Simply contact a Member Services representative at 1-866-622-1775 to update your information by phone.

   13. How do I know when my MCA&F Membership will expire?

       Your MCA&F Membership expiration date can be found on the home page of the member portal at www.mca-marines.org . You can also contact the MCA&F Member Services Department to get your membership expiration date at 1-866-622-1775. To avoid any lapse in your MCA&F membership you can sign up to have your renewal automatically charged to your credit card.

   14. How am I notified when it is time to renew my MCA&F Membership?

       We want to make sure there is no lapse in your MCA&F Membership and that you do not miss any issues of your benefit magazine ( Leatherneck or Marine Corps Gazette ) so we send out the first renewal notice 90 days prior to the expiration of your membership. If we don't hear from you, then we'll send out additional notices 60 days and 30 days prior to expiration. If we haven't received your renewal by your last issue, we will attach a cover wrap to that last issue as another reminder to renew. If you want to ensure your MCA&F Membership does not ever lapse, you can sign up for our Easy Pay program which automatically charges your MCA&F Membership renewal to the credit card you provide. You also will not receive any renewal notices when you are on Easy Pay.

   15. How can I make updates to my personal information in my membership record (i.e. Rank, address, phone number, service status, email address)?

   You can update your information yourself by logging in as a member at www.mca-marines.org and clicking on the button. If you prefer, you can call our Member Services department at 1-866-622-1775 and one of our representatives will be happy to make updates to your record for you.

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   Subscriptions (Leatherneck and Gazette Magazines)

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   1. When will I receive my first issue of the Leatherneck and/or Marine Corps Gazette magazine?

      You will receive your first issue in approximately 4 to 6 weeks after your order has been received and processed.

   2. If I move and submit a change of address, when will I receive my magazine(s) at my new address?

      Address changes need to be processed approximately 1 month in advance. For example to change your address for the June issue of your magazine, the address change needs to be processed prior to May 1 st . You can update your own contact information by logging in as a member at www.mca-marines.org , or if you prefer, you can call 1-866-622-1775 and a Member Services representative will be happy to update your address information for you.

   3. When should I expect to receive my magazine each month?

      The magazines are mailed to arrive during the first week of the month. You should normally receive your copy by the 10th of each month. Foreign addresses may take longer.

   4. Are back issues available? How do I order them?

      Yes, back issues are available. If you are a new member or renewing, you may request your term to start with a prior month if issues are available. If you are looking for a Leatherneck or Marine Corps Gazette from up to 10 years ago, you may purchase them for $5.95 each by calling 1-866-622-1775. Covers only are also available for $2.00 each. We have most issues from the past 10 years.

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   Affiliate Partner Benefits

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   1. How do I apply for life and health insurance?

      You may visit www.mcainsurance.com to view information on the benefits and features of the Supplemental Health Care Plans available exclusively to Marine Corps Association & Foundation members and apply for insurance programs online. You may also contact the insurance administrator Customer Service directly at 1-800-368-5682 for details or questions.

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   Marine Corps Service-Related Information

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   1. How may I contact Marines with whom I have served?

      You can locate other Marines on the Internet thru www.thefew.com , or www.usmc.mil , and click on “other links,” then “Marine organizations” and then, “mailcall USMC web groups.” The World Wide Locator at Quantico Marine Corps Base may be of help and can be reached at 703-784-3941. In addition, Leatherneck magazine publishes requests in the “Sound Off” column each month. You may contact Leatherneck through our web site, or call 1-800-336-0291 during business hours.

   2. How do I apply for the Combat Action Ribbon and Korean Commemorative Medal for service during the Korean War?

      Requests for the medal should be sent to U.S. Navy Liaison Office, National Personnel Records Center, Rm. 3475, 9700 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132. Include a copy of the discharge or separation document, or form DD214.

   3. How do I get a copy of a Marine's service record?

      Write to the National Personnel Records Center c/o Marine Corps Dept., 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132 or phone 1-800-318-5298. Include your name, serial number, and/or social security number and date of birth.

   4. How can I determine awards a Marine has earned, and how can I get replacement medals?

      Contact Awards Branch at 703-784-3934 or write to Commandant of the Marine Corps, HQUSMC MMMA, Marsh Center, 3280 Russell Rd., Quantico, VA 22134. Include social security number and/or Service number, along with your signature. Please be specific in your request.

   5. How do I find unit reports and histories of units in which a Marine has served?

      If you're in the area you may visit Marine Corps Historical Center located 1254 Charles Morris St SE, Washington, DC where they have an archive of historical information and a reference section. You may also call 202-433-4253 or visit their web site at http://www.chinfo.navy.mil.

   6. How can I get a copy or get a corrected copy of my DD 214?

      You can obtain a copy or receive a corrected copy of a DD 214 by writing:

   National Personnel Records Center
   Military Personnel Records
   9700 Page Blvd
   St. Louis, MO 63132-5100

   Or you may also call at: 314-801-0800 or send a FAX to 314-801-9195.

   When sending in your request, make sure you include your full name; SSN(Service number too if you served when we used separate service numbers); mailing address; daytime telephone number; branch of service; what you want- DD 214; reason for the request.
   There is also a Web site where you can go online and make your request- please take a look at: 
   http://www.archives.gov/research_room/vetrecs/index.html

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   MCA&F Retail

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   1. Do MCA&F members receive discounts on merchandise?

      Yes, MVP (Member Value Pricing) is available on select items both in the retail locations and for purchases online through www.marineshop.net

   2. How do I know if I am a member?

      To verify if you are a member, please call 1-888-237-7683, M-F 8:00 a.m – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

   3. When will I receive my order?

      In-stock items are usually received in 10 to 15 working days. Backorders are processed as soon as the merchandise becomes available.

   4. Do you offer express shipping?

      Shipments can be sent overnight or 2-day express per your request. Expedited shipping requests will incur an additional charge

   5. May I have a gift sent?

      Yes. When you place your order, please let us know if it is a gift. We can include a gift card for $1.00. We can also gift wrap items for an additional charge of $3.50 per package.

   6. How do I place an order for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball?

      MCA&F is your complete supplier of all necessary items to make your reunion and Birthday Ball celebration an event to remember. Birthday ball items can be ordered through www.marineshop.net or by calling 1-888-237-7683.

   7. What credit cards do you accept?

      MCA&F accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.

   8. What are your hours?
      
      MCA&F's office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

   The Marine Shop in Quantico is located at 300 Potomac Avenue in Quantico, VA. TMS offers books, gift items, uniforms and more and is open for walk-in customers from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday closed Sunday.

   The Marine Shop in Camp LeJeune is located at Building 84, Exchange Annex, Hadnot Point and is open for walk-in customers Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., closed on Sundays . Telephone 910-451-7500

   1. What is your return policy?

      If there is a problem with your order, please contact our office at 1-888-237-7683.

   2. May I order online?

      Yes at www.marineshop.net . Phone orders are also accepted at 1-888-237-7683, M-F 8:00 a.m – 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

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   Customer Service

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   1. Do you have a catalog?

      We have a Birthday Ball catalog that comes out once per year, otherwise all items may be viewed on the website ( www.marineshop.net )

   2. Can I order a uniform over the phone?

      You can place your uniform order HERE, fax or call us at 1-703-640-0187. If you provide your email address when you place your order, your tracking information will be sent to you when your order ships. 

   3. How long will my order take to ship out?

      3-5 business days for regular orders, longer if Tailoring or Personalization is involved.

   4. How long will it take to get a commissioning package?

      6-8 weeks.

   5. How do I get my tracking information on my order?

      Please contact customer service for that information.

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   ECommerce

   1. How do I change my account information for the Marine Shop online?
      There are many things you can do in your Account page! Simply Log-in when you get to the Marine Shop and from there you can:
      • Edit My Account Preferences
        • Change your default shipping method
        • Enable or disable Email Newsletters
      • Change My Email Address or Password
      • Edit My Billing Information
      • Edit My Default Shipping Address
      • View My Previous Orders
        
   2. How do I take advantage of Member Pricing?
      Members of the Marine Corps Association & Foundation receive Member Value Pricing on many of our items, in addition to all of the other benefits of being an MCA&F member. To learn about eligibility requirements and to join the Marine Corps Association & Foundation today, please visit our join member page.

      Note: Once you register as a member it will take up to two (2) buisness days for your status to be updated at the Marine Shop online. But don't worry! You can shop around and put items in your cart, which will be saved for up to seven (7) days through a cookie on your computer. When you return, and your status is updated, you'll be ready receive your discount(s)!

   3. How do I keep a list of the things that I might want to buy, when I'm just browsing around right now?
      Our ecommerce system works just like Amazon, Walmart and others, providing you with a ‘Wish List' that allows you to add items that you would like to purchase later (or items you would like someone else to purchase for you later!).

      When browsing an item individually, you will see two links just to the right of the product: ‘Tell A Friend‘ and ‘Add to Favorites'. Click on ‘Add to Favorites' in order to add that item to your ‘Wish List'! After that, you can ‘Tell a Friend' to come look at your list!

   4. How do I find out about specials, sales, clearances and new items?
      You can always check back regularly to see what we've updated or, better yet, make sure you join on Marine Shop Online newsletter when you join! We will regularly update all subscribers on what's new.

      Note: If you have already opened an account in the Marine Shop online, you can subscribe to our newsletter announcements by logging in and changing your preferences in Account Information>Edit My Account Preferences.

   5. How can I order Special Services and/ or Uniforms?
      Right now, for special services (such as engraving, swords, mounting, etc.), Uniforms (all tailored items) and other items (such as business cards), the Marine Shop online must depend on forms which we ask that you download and fill out. You can find these forms at: http://www.marineshop.com/onlineorderforms.aspx

      Note: We are in the process of developing special forms that will allow you to submit all of your information online, in just a few, easy steps! Stay tuned for more in the coming months.

   6. What is your Shipping Policy?
      We provide regular Ground, 2 nd Day and Overnight shipping, which is based on the amount of your order. All of our rates are based on shipping to states within the US. For more information on our shipping, please see: http://www.marineshop.net/shipping.htm .

   7. What is your Return Policy?
      We allow Returns within 7-days of your receipt. Please call 1-877-622-1775 for more information, or see: http://www.marineshop.net/returns.htm .

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   Retail - Birthday Ball

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   1. When is my order due?

      Overseas – due by August 15, State side – due by September 15.

   2. How much is personalization?

      For glassware (just the date of the event) - $10.00 – unless it’s on the back of the glassware only; all other personalization - $50.00. For placemats - $35.00.

   3. What is the minimum order for personalization?

      For glassware it is 36 glasses (black and white) and 300 glasses (color), for placemats - 1 set of 100 placemats.

   4. What can be put on a glass?

      Almost anything. If more than one color is specified, the colors cannot touch.

   5. How are the glasses shipped?

      Stateside glass orders are shipped directly from the vendor. Overseas orders are packaged here and shipped from the MCA&F.

   6. Is there a quantity discount on glasses?

      No.

   7. What is the payment policy?

      Requirements are as follows: 50% of the total is required when the order is placed and a credit card number must be provided at the time of the order, to secure the remaining balance. (The card will NOT be charged unless we do not receive the remainder which is due by November 15.)

   8. What kind of receipt will be provided?

      There will be an invoice and a picking ticket will be provided with your order.

   9. How do I calculate shipping?

      Shipping is determined by your order total for orders over $250.00, shipping charges are typically 10% in state and 15% out of state. Please call customer service for shipping on large orders.

   10. Do I have to pay tax?

       Yes, if the order is placed from Virginia or North Carolina. No, if you are in any other state or if tax-exempt information is provided.

   11. What is the average turn around time on an order?

       Two to four weeks.

   12. Do you ship to PO boxes?

       We prefer a street address if at all possible.

   13. Can items be returned?

       Not personalized items, or special orders.

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