Loophole in Military Discount at Chili's

I am active duty military (12+ yrs) and while I am grateful when
establishments offer military discounts, I in no way feel like they
should be "obligated" to give them. If a restaurant wants to offer a
discount for any reason, they are entitled to set up the rules as they
like. Getting a military discount is not a "right". Think about the
100's of major chains that give no discount whatsoever (uniform or
not).

HI - I agree with you 100% ! It seems Chili's would love to have the
PR that giving a discount to someone in uniform would bring, why else
would they want you in uniform? Why wouldn't you be able to show your
military ID for proof? My boyfriend ( USAF ) never wears his uniform
except for work. When we go out - it's jeans and a sweater - it's his
down time. Besides you are not allowed to drink in uniform (
unless you are on base, off duty in the lounge). It is definitely
worth asking for the discount where ever you go - we go to Colonial
Williamsburg every year and they not only thank you for your service
but give a fantastic discount - and Home Depot - around here anyway (
MA ) gives a 10% "thank-you" discount each and every time - now
that's awesome! And now that we are on the subject of discounts...
check out The Armed Forces Vacation Club www.afvclub.com if you
haven't already - won't find a better deal anywhere! Good luck and
God bless everyone who serves. Those companies that give discounts,
but don't advertise are truly aces in my book and worth doing business
with.

I am a manager for Chili's. I can say that working in a Chili's in a
military town is not profitable if everyone showed up in town and
wants a discount. You say you defend our country, that means
defending the finacial part of our country. If 8000 soldiers walked
into a restraunt and got a discount, the place would close down. So
asking you to be in uniform is appropriate. We like the uniforms
because its a deterant for robbery and misconduct from others. If I
walk in a place and see a uniformed officer, I know I'm not gonna make
a stink about anything.

On the other hand, Out of respect for your service, I would have
extended the discount to ACTIVE military. Retiress honestly have got
enough discounts from society.

In a sense military personel are the same as welfare cases, take,
take, take. We understand you get shot at in COMBAT. More likely
rarely shot at. Because this war is no where near deathly like the
korean war.

Stop your crying! In this economy you at least have a job. DEFEND
YOUR COUNTRY!!

I agree that there do seem to be loopholes out there when it comes to
miltary discounts. And many aren't aloud t wear their uniforms in
public. I have ran into one issue where a zoo like park offered a deal
if the sponser was with and in uniform(note that this was during
summer so navy was in whites for this area) however, if he/she were
deployed they accepted the dependants ID no problem withouth proof of
deployment(not like you could give one) so it didn't make much sense
to require the uniform. I think it might have been possible that the
image of those in uniform on such a dedicated day would have looked
nicer than a huge line that civilians would have been upset about the
special treatment. Most places around a base will accept just the
card. But there are those that require uniform. As an EMT I ran into
instances while in uniform that I was given a discount(I didn't ask)
which felt good to be appreciated. So the uniform does prevent over
use and mis use of the discount. I think your letter was appropriate.
You didn't mention boycotting them or anything. And you weren't asking
for a free meal. Most places don't give more than a 10% diiscount
anyway. Like mentioned before... there are probably others out there
getting the same amount just for belonging to AAA or being a senior
citizen. Its not like getting an employee discount at the place you
work. It just a thank you and pat on the back no matter the value. It
is about respect, not of a monitary value. And most chains leave it up
to the owner. There was a dunkin donuts once that would not offer it,
they had even refused to serve a couple guys in uniform once because
the owner was so against the war and all. So to each his own. You are
no less of a person for asking if a discount exists or for feeling
appauled for the stipulations of eligibility.

Sounds like they made their policy perfectly clear. If you dont like
it, dont eat there, simple as that! Being a police officer, and
someone who puts his life on the line, on a far more regular basis
then you or your family ever will (not that i dont support the troops
dont get me wrong) I dont run around asking for discounts because I
carry a badge. Try being humble, and getting a quiet thanks, instead
of financially being recognized for something you and your family
chose to do. Nobody forced you to join the military, so they should
not be forced to compensate you for it. Pretty sad, when people
demand to be given a reward for serving their country.

While it is unfortunate that Chili's has a weird policy about giving
military discounts.. there is NO law that says any service
establishment HAS to give out military discounts. Companies are merely
being generous in giving a discount to active and former military.

I agree with you Brenda. My ex is in the Marine Corps, and lots of
places offer discounts to military, some extend their discount to
family members- most of the places I have used my discount had their
policies regarding this discount in place. If I'm not sure, like you-
I ask. I disagree with your particular Chili's policy- our local one
here has only asked for ID (the JAG school is here, and so there are a
lot of service members in our town).
My thoughts are that anyone can go to a thrift store or surplus store
and purchase a uniform, and how is the establishment going to know if
the person is legit or not? Not without that ID card.
Our local Golden Corral also offers free meals to all current and
former active duty service members on Veteran's day- they take your
word for it. One of my co-workers comes from a military family and
they go every year- and they've seen people that they know have never
served claim the free meal. It's all on an honor policy, and
unfortunately folks take advantage of it.
Recently my daughter had a field trip to an amusement park- when I
still had my ID, they offered a military discount for up to 6 people
per ID card, but the holder had to be present. Well my son wanted to
go, and so I called them to see if he could use his ID and was told
yes, and that anyone with him could also receive the discount- he's 7.
This was a savings of $17 per person. Did I take advantage of it?
You betcha- because while dad's away in Iraq, the money transfers
aren't always happening. And because this corporation chooses to
offer the discount to us.
I'm sure all of the other posters on here are members of AAA, or some
other organization that offers discounts, and takes advantage of them
as well. They have their cards for proof, and it seems that Chili's
should accept ID cards as well. Otherwise, I think I'll run purchase
some cammies then head to your chili's.. NOT....lol

If I work for the US Postal Service and they offer a discount for me,
but I don't have on my uniform and don't get the discount, it makes
Chili's bad? Weird reasoning lady. And just because someone serves
or previously served in the military does not give them due respect,
or their spouses. You earn respect through your example as a human
being. It's not something that is handed out as an award just
because. That's plain ignorance if you expect that. Being a good
person, thinking of others and living your life in peace and harmony
will get you due respect. You are not setting a very good example if
you happen to have children.

And by the way, watch your spelling. Birthday is all one word. And
you don't go there "quit" often, but "quite" often. And your entire
last paragraph is really a mess. You have sentences that are
structured as two, when they are actually just one. And the statement
"We think that offering a discount is completely your choice", doesn't
make any sense. There is no logic in that statement. So next time
you write a letter, proof it first. Don't make yourself come across
ignorant. You already come across arrogant. And I realize I'm not
being very kind to you, but guess what? You get back in life what you
put out there. Pretty simple stuff. I'm personally tired of people
who hide behind how great they are because they serve in the military.
It's a job like any other job. It has its consequences, but you know
about those before you sign on, just like any job. And being in the
military goes back thousands of years. So a sense of entitlement
because you serve your country is a weak plea. We all serve our
country in some shape or form.

Good luck!

Not reading anything else, I have to agree with the OP on this one.
The Marine Corps have strict rules about where you can wear certain
uniforms...thus it's not fair that they can't get a military discount
for following orders

I don't think Chili's "Values" are beneath their quality of food,
libations, and service. The fact they offer a discount for the
military at all shows a great deal of respect. You use the word
"loophole" where nothing even comes close to a loophole (except for
trying to make one with your wording in the question to the server).

Their policy states a uniform is needed, the server double checked
and the answer was "no". How does that translate to a "lack of
respect?" Yes, if one has the uniform on, and it's a stipulation of
the policy, then that person surely fits the criteria.

To not come off as an unpatriotic boob, I have no family in the
service at this time. I do have former military in my family and not
ONCE did they expect a discount even when it was offered back in the
days when they returned. I do know three people who gave the last full
measure. One in Afganistan and One in Iraq and One in an accident at
Ft Dix. They were children of friends of my family. I'd give my
eyeteeth and free food for life to every one and their extended
families who served if it could bring them back. I can't afford that,
and it wouldn't make it "OK", ever.
I always thank military for their service and am no more or less a
patriot than any other taxpayer in this country. I understand freedom
comes with a price. I do know the sacrifice families make when a
family member joins the military.
I just don't see Chili's deserving to be demeaned when they at least
offer some kind of discount.

How pompous can you be? I am an EMT, and many places I go when I am on
the job offer free/half price food. I don't ask for it, nor do I feel
I am entitled to it. I do my job like everyone else does in America. I
expect to pay for my food the same as anyone else who comes in the
place, regardless of the uniform. I don't expect to have my butt
kissed. Believe me I've saved many a lives as you do Mr. USMC. I don't
do it for recognition nor the money, it is who I am. and I don't
expect squat. If people do something special like a discount or free
food, I always tell them it isn't necessary. If they insist I will
take them up on it. But I don't expect it.

and I think it is insulting to all of us who wear a uniform and serve
our citizens whether it be in public safety, military, or even the
sanitation workers when someone like you tries to throw up in
everyone's face that you *deserve* special treatment because (insert
self-important assertion here).

you do your job, I do mine too. I expect nothing special. I do it
because I love the work and love my community I serve. Not to get
"passes". you make us look bad pal.

I'm guessing by choosing this as your handle that you are USMC. As
the sister of a soon-to-be-returning-from-Iraq Navy corpsman, I thank
you and appreciate your service.

However, what you need to understand is that by your wife writing
this, she gives the impression that this discount was what was most
important to you, as opposed to the recognition for your service.

I don't believe that a lack of a discount shows a lack of respect for
the military. That's a bit of a stretch.

Whether you agree with it or not, the policy is the policy and for
whatever reason, they have decided to implement it that way.

Finally, asking the community to overlook your less than stellar
grammar and writing skills kind of lends itself to the stereotype that
some people have of Marines not being the brightest. Are you sure
that's the image you want to promote?

Much love to ALL the family and friends of those who serve and have
served our country so valiantly. You are the heroes of our country.

HAPPY 4th of JULY!

Ok look....... I am the husband and my OPINION is this! I didnt join
the military to get a discount you are right, nor do I feel I deserve
one for what I do it is 100% voluntary, I didnt even get bothered when
they said we cant get it for not being in uniform and didnt ask for it
in the firts place. Dont really see the big deal, but I can see her
point she just feels that the uniform isnt the point, shouldnt be a
necessary thing! "YES, YES, YES its thier policy" got it! Here is
food for thought lol........... I am supposed to remain VIGILENT and
be INCONCPICIOUS not to draw attention to myself for several reasons!

1. If someone were to hate the military "like people do" and that day
they decided to cause a problem because I was there! FAR FETCHED I
KNOW

2. If someone were to want to rob that establishement if I am
obviously trained and capable of causing a problem in their plans what
would that do? FAR FETCHED I KNOW

But say this you are on a plane that someone intends to crash into a
building and you are in uniform you become a target instead of an aid
to the survival or well being of others! Like many of our officers,
FBI agents and others that defend our nation as a whole!

I am in the military dont expect great grammer or spelling! lol

Just realize this! This country has become a stipulation! If you
have this you get this but ONLY if you come like this!

I think that makes sense if not its ok! I like Chili's and I love my
country regardless of if they appreciate me or not!

Support your troops they didnt ask to be sent where they are, but they
do it willingly! BECAUSE YOU THE CITIZENS OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA DECIDED YOU WANTED ACTION. Thank you and God Bless

You know, I can see writing a respectful letter about your extreme
disappointment in how Chili's handles their military discounts, but to
read into their policy a "lack of respect that we feel was shown for
the man and women that serve our country", "appauling in every aspect
on the word", and "To think that you are only valued if you are in a
uniform" seems a "bit" overdone.
Reading that much into a discount's stipulations is why many places no
longer offer discounts at all; too much flak and emotion from those
who don't "qualify" for whatever reason.

Sincerely,
Proud member of a family with 9 retired military (Army, Navy, and
Marines) and 4 active duty military personnel (Army and Marines - 3 in
Iraq)

To all of you that think I am some Planetfeedback junky with a list
of complaints piled up on my desk. You are wrong! This is my third
time ever coming to this web site. The first time to read a specific
acticle, the second to file my complaint and third because I got an
email to check this ever so often.
So I thank you all for your opinions. But an opinion does not make it
a fact. No I do not expect freebies and not having the discount is
completely ok.
Chili's did offer the military discount that is where they commit
them selves. I think I was completely clear in my letter, but it may
have by passed some of you. So you may want to read the letter twice
if you have a problem with comprehension. My letter is not about
military pride (which by the way we are very pride). It is about a
loophole in Chili's discount policy.

You're right - - offering a discount for military personnel is
completely Chili's choice - - as are the requirements for receiving
said discount.

This has nothing to do with a loophole. A loophole typically refers
to a situation where someone can take advantage of a situation. For
example, if someone realized that showing up in surplus-store fatigues
would automatically earn them a military discount... that might be
considered a loophole.

What we have here is a "too stringent" application of a policy.
Military discounts are common and are there because the owner wants to
show a special respect for members of the military and (often) to
retired members. Or, at this may sound cynical, but to SEEM as-if the
owner is patriotic. Either way, the "rules" for getting the discount
are often showing some evidence of being/having been a member of the
armed services. And, therein, there's little discrimination. Served
on the front lines in Iraq, losing your sight? You get the same
discount as someone that worked in an office in the States during
peace time.

A few months back, there was a letter about uniformed police offers
receiving discounts. Some pointed out that businesses (especially
restaurants) offer uniformed police officer discounts in order to
attract offices. With a restaurant full of uniformed officers, who
would rob the place?

This is a different situation.

Anyway...

As Brenda points out, it's the business' decision to offer a discount
or not. While I'm not sure that the line that this Chili's is making
is necessary, ultimately Brenda's original thought was right: it's
their restaurant, they get to make the rules.

By the way, if anyone finds a restaurant that offers discounts for
teachers, stay-at-home parents, or the guy that builds wheelchair
ramps... give me a call. For some odd reason, these folks get no
discount, while someone that joined the service does? Hmmm...

Chili's can offer any kind of discount that they choose. If they want
to create a discount where everyone who comes in wearing a purple hat,
and only those wearing one, receives a discount, they are entitled to
do so. It's not a "loophole" and it's not disrespectful, because they
can put any stipulation on their discounts that they want. Like others
have said, maybe the reason why ID is unacceptable is because they
have problems with abuse in the past.

I do think your letter was, for the most part, well written, clear and
respectful, unlike many others I have seen on here.

Well, I'm of mixed feelings on this issue. I understand your point -
that if the discount is for military personnel, what difference should
it make if they happen to be wearing a uniform?

But then again, AAFES themselves has an in-uniform/out-of-uniform
policy. (There are express service lines at the PX, that are just for
soliders in uniform, during the day, because presumably they are on
the job and need faster service).

Perhaps this Chili's has had a problem in the past with people abusing
the discount (i.e pretending to be in the military) and this is the
simplest way to weed those out.

Or perhaps your community is so saturated with active duty,
dependents, retirees, and reservists that extending the discount to
all those people is cost-prohibitive.

Our Albertson's grocery store is offering a discount to active duty
military from now through July 4. I asked, and they said no, I
couldn't show my dependent ID - had to be the service member. This
means I will have to let my husban loose in a grocery store, which
will surely negate any savings, as he tends to buy a lot of Hostess
Cakes or potato chips when left to his own devices But it's their
policy, and I respect it. I can use the discount under their
guidelines or shop elsewhere.

I don't understand why so many of you are getting on Brenda's case for
wanting a discount! I didn't read her letter and think, "Oh look, she
thinks she's entitled to special treatment because she's military".
Apparently, Chili's DOES offer the discount, it's not like she
requested it specially because of the military status. She simply
wanted Chili's to give a discount they already have in place. To say
that military personnel must be in uniform to receive he discount IS
appalling - are they any less military when not in uniform? hey had
military ID - why wasn't that sufficient?

Brenda didn't ask for a bunch of freebies, only that the policy be
looked into. How does that make her one of these whiny,
entitlement-types that frequent this site? Sorry to those previous
posters who want to jump all over this one, I think this is a valid
complaint!

Sorry, I disagree. They don't have to offer the discount at all.
Since they do, it is up to them to put whatever conditions they want
in their policy.

Let me ask you this. If they did offer the discount with just the ID,
who should get it? Your whole party? Why, they are not all current
military. You are not and neither are the children. Should it just
be active military or should veterans get it too? Should the discount
be applied to the entire check or just those who currently serve?

See what I mean? Some of these things get carried away so the
business finds that they have to put a policy in place and stick to
it.

Different places have different policies. I'm not saying I agree with
the policies, that's just the way it is. Last week my parents tried
to book a room at a certain hotel because their website advertised a
generous military discount...well they called and the hotel rep said
as a new policy the military discount does not apply to retired
military. Oh well, they went with a different hotel. The policy
stinks, but what are you gonna do about it? Not a big deal. And I
don't think Chilis is trying to disrespect your father in law. Maybe
you live in an area where there are a lot of military people and they
just don't want to give the discount out to everyone with a military
id (which could include all spouses, dependents, etc).

I disagree. If Chili's wants to provide a discount to active members
of the military AND only when they are in uniform, that's their
choice. Many restaurants give cops a discount if they're in uniform,
but not when they're off duty (and cops aren't allowed to wear their
uniform when they're off duty).

And I'd watch with the use of the word "we" in your final paragraph.
You never indicated that YOU have served in the military.

Well, here is my opinion. If you profess to give discounts to a
certain group of people, Military, seniors, whomever, the policy needs
to be uniformly enforced. By requiring someone show up in full
military dress to receive a discount is silly. If that person can
produce a current and valid ID showing they are in the military, honor
the discount. I am quite confident if an older couple hobbled in with
canes, etc, I am quite confident you would not ask for 'proof' they
were seniors. Enforce the policy uniformly.

To the poster who is former military and current EMT, I'd buy you
dinner. Military service and keeping people alive is crap pay for
serious work. I do my part to make social contributions when I can,
but it can not compare to that kind of sacrifice. If you're ever in
CT, lemme know.

You do realize that this letter makes it sound like you value military
service only for the discounts some businesses provide, right?

I don't feel like I'm owed anything, either way. I do what I do
because I choose to.

Step off your soapbox and read it again. No one's looking for
freebies. She isn't demanding a discount. This is the first time
anyone in her group had even asked abuot a discount, and they were
already regular customers. She just didn't see why an I.D wouldn't
work.

See? It's all written down.

I'm not certain how not offering a discount to customers who were not
in a military uniform shows a lack of respect for our servicemen and
woman.

Chili's - like any other business - does not have to offer a discount
to anyone. If they choose to offer discounts and make certain
stipulations, that is within their rights.

There are greater atrocities happening to our military forces both
here and abroad than not getting a discount at Chili's. I would hope
the OP would put time and energy into addressing those as a matter of
respect rather than who pays what when they go out to eat. Otherwise,
it is difficult to believe the letter is not about the price.

I have to agree with Brenda. All other places I have been to you just
need to show ID. You do NOT have to be in uniform.

Given the current and past military situations around the world, more
should be done for veterans.

Brenda,
As oppsoed to having to be in uniform are you sure they did not say or
mean you have to be active military?
IMHO that makes more sense.
At the end of your letter you state: We deserve the military discount
that you offer as long as we show proof.
Would wearing the uniform not meet both your's and Chili's criteria
and your offer to show proof?
BillR.

You are just like everyone else. No one forced you to join the
military.