Thank you, come again!

Kuwaitis are rich.  They are so rich in fact that they never have to work.  To be more precise, this country imports in all of their labor force.  And why shouldn’t they if they have the oil money for it.  Most of the foreign workers, or TCNs (third country nationals), come from third world countries or emerging economies and work in the rich desert countries to send money home to their families.  Most are from south-central and south-east Asian countries like India, Packistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, or Thailand.

Those TCNs lucky enough to work on the U.S./coalition bases and encampments do all of the menial work such as cleaning and cooking as well as office and retail jobs.  They are always very friendly and polite and have an amazing grasp of the English language, although through a heavy accent.

The base at Ali Al Salem in Kuwait, being a transient way point for military travelers, is full of small conveniences to make you feel like you are at home.  Somewhat... 

On this base there’s a MacDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway, doughnut shop, and Green Bean (which is AAFES’ version of Starbucks).  They’re all great to a weary traveler sick of eating DFAC food longing for a greasy American experience again. 

AAFES (the Army Air Force Exchange Service) is a quasi government organization similar to how the post office operates has evolved from the old trading posts or outpost exchanges run by the U.S. Army in the late 19^th century.  The PX/BX/NX/MX (Post, Base, Navy, and Marine exchanges) are like very small stores similar to Wal-Mart.  On installations in the U.S., exchanges can be nearly the size of large Wal-Marts.  On small bases over seas they are often the size of convenience stores with similar stock.  A little known fact is that AAFES is also the largest franchiser of Burger King in the world.

There are also “concessionaires” that are businesses contracted by AAFES to provide specialty items such as jewelry, internet and phone service, civilian clothing, and local bazaar-type items.  Of course, all at jacked up prices.  But AAFES “claims” it’s a bargain since you pay no sales tax.  However, AAFES knows that when Service Members have a pocket full of money and nowhere to spend it, they will pay whatever they charge.  Simple supply and demand, but hey, they’re a monopoly and can do what they wish.

A simple trip to the exchange for me usually consists of a chilled bottle of Gatorade, some type of hygiene item I needed but forgot, and a long look at the expensive military equipment/gear isle.   This is where I argue with myself if I really need another piece of military gear for this deployment that I don’t already have.

I take my purchases to the counter where I am greeted by a pleasant man whose name I can’t pronounce without asking him.  I pay, thank him, and wish him a good day.  He replies in English through a very heavy accent, “You are very welcome sir.”

More to follow.