CAN ANYONE I.D. THESE IMPOSTERS?? 01/15/2010

Troops blast online uniform retailer


Criminals Use Romance, Patriotism to Steal Money

READ ON AT THIS LINK: http://www.pownetwork.org/phonies/phonies.htm

They are catching on to you Armed Forces MCSS

Troops blast online uniform retailer


Sometimes the online store that seems to have just what you’re looking for isn’t what it seems.

Several otherwise savvy service members — among them a major and a master sergeant — say they learned that lesson recently after trying to purchase uniform items from the private company Armed Forces Military Clothing Sales Store of Jamaica, N.Y.

Many say the company simply does not respond to complaints about late or undelivered orders.

Despite its official-sounding name, the company, also known as Armed Forces MCSS, is not part of the government.

Air Force Maj. Dwight Minnick is among the dissatisfied customers. He said he ordered $457 in uniform items in early March and was told they were in stock and could be delivered by April 1.

When he hadn’t received his order by April 9, he called to cancel and, he said, was told that could only be done online. However, when he tried, the system failed to cancel the order. So he canceled the charge with his credit card company instead.

The uniforms eventually arrived, he said — the week of May 5, more than a month late, while Minnick was on temporary duty. Shortly after he called FedEx on May 14 to find out how to return them, however, he received a call from Armed Forces MCSS.

“He threatened to call 911 and have me arrested, ” Minnick said, adding that the employee would not give his name. “He told me there was a $10, 000 fine. He said he had done this to two other people, but he wouldn’t give me any other information.”

Minnick said he complained to his base inspector general, who has since briefed other airmen at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., about the company.

“I’m concerned about the young airman or soldier who gives in to these bullying tactics, ” he said.

Leslie Fields, chief financial officer at Armed Forces MCSS, acknowledged problems.

“We do have some dissatisfied customers, ” he said. “I send out our sincerest apologies to these people.”

He acknowledged “bad attitudes” in customer service, and promised: “I intend to fix the problems.”

He said anyone with complaints should e-mail him directly at [email protected], or call him at (718) 291-4611.

He also said he had thousands of satisfied customers and that his company is pursuing legal action against nine people whom he says accepted orders and then canceled payment through their credit card companies.

Comments from interviews with service members and postings on the consumer bulletin board http://www.complaintsboard.com allege the company threatened to file IG complaints and take legal action against service members who tried to cancel orders.

Most complaints are from airmen because of the Air Force’s new airman battle uniform, which has been in short supply everywhere. Fields said the company has been working closely with vendors to try to get the uniforms they need in stock.

Missouri Air National Guard Master Sgt. Miles Spainhower said he used his credit card to place a $275 order with Armed Forces MCSS. He said he never received it and got only $225 back when he canceled the order.

He filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, which forwarded it to the company for response. Spainhower said Armed Forces MCSS mailed him back a copy of his complaint, with no response — but addressed the envelope to “Miles ‘Crybaby’ Spainhower.” Fields said he is looking into that.

The New York Better Business Bureau has rated Armed Forces MCSS as “unsatisfactory” for its complaint response record, said Tony Barbera, manager of the New York BBB’s information and investigations department.

According to the BBB’s online report at http://www.cbbb.org, 26 complaints were filed against the company in the past year; it failed to respond to 21.

Fields said his company ceased working with the New York BBB after it refused to remove what Fields called “erroneous” information from its Web site. He said his company has filed a complaint about the BBB with the New York attorney general.

Here are some things to consider when buying online:

• Check out the company through the Better Business Bureau, http://www.cbbb.org.

• Buy with a credit card; you have more protections.

• Check the terms and conditions before buying. Unless you agree to a longer time frame, the company must ship within 30 days, or you have the right to cancel, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

• If you have concerns about a company, contact your base legal assistance office.

Armed Forces MCSS™ - Customer Testimonials


"I want to publicly thank the personnel at Armed Forces MCSS for their utmost professionalism and skill in dealing with my multiple orders and several in store visits.
I have already recommended your establishment to several Marines in my unit and my personal life. Keep up this level of customer service and I am sure you will obtain hundreds more of life long customers such as myself.
Thank You!
Semper Fi SGT Desmond A.De Leo, USMCR


The service is just that, actual service. I have found the staff to both be informative and reasonable.
My shopping experience has been more than that of the typical retailer and consumer. It was personal.
The selection, prices, and sales/ discounts make it a wholistic shopping experience."
From: SPC Fowlin of Jamaica, NY.


"Gentlemen, I would like to commend you all on doing an outstanding job.
I had many reservations after reading some negative comments from some individuals.
I am a MSgt and presently the leader of a HQ element heading to the AO. Your staff is the utmost in professional and the attention to detail you showed is second to few units
I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I would ask you to keep my credit card number on file as I expect to purchase again if not in bulk, through IMPAC via my Logistics Personnel, then personally.
I am looking forward to picking up my special order ABU Gortex in the two days you advised.
I'm sorry for those individuals and hope their tenure of leadership leads them to the door!
To all future purchasers read the Item and shipping description, ask simple questions and I'm sure you too will be a satisfied buyer!
Thanks again for the Spec Ops Speed Sling and all the gear I picked up!!"
From: Eric Fosse of Baldwin, NY


"I have recently had a the great opportunity to meet with the staff at this MCSS.
While in New York I made sure to stop by and check out this store. My brigade has done business with them and I receive newsletters that talks about how comprehensive they are to the wants and needs of service members.
Well, let me tell you something, the staff at this location was five stars. Anything that I have seen in the papers or heard the buzz about, they had it! All the newest googles, ballistic sunglasses, bags, boots, gear, ptw weapons, and so much more.
They had the new flame retardant clothing and a wide selection of optics for my weapon.
When I first walked in, ( I had to show my military I.D. to enter) I knew I was in soldiers heaven. WOW. This place has everything and more!!!
Take my advice, Armed Forces MCSS is the greatest store I have ever been to. I plan to keep shopping with them on their online catalog.
Thanks for the good work and support. William Anthony, CSM"
From: William Anthony of Glencoe, IL


CPT Garcia, who is the CEO of this company runs a tight ship. All staff are of the highest integrity and concern.
There seems to be junior and senior NCO's that voice abrasive comments concerning this contractor to the United States Federal Government.
Why it is that individuals would want to create false and libel statments as servicmembers and not be supportive of fellow servicemembers?
Once again, some people would rather be part of the problem than part of the solution! I have never had any problems with the Armed Forces MCSS.
You have my word as a Comissioned Officer. "
From: COL Tom Shiebert of Carroll, OH


Armed Forces MCSS - ONE STOP SHOP"
From: LTC Derek Riggs of Chantilly, VA


"I ORDERED FOR MY SQUAD AND RECEIVED OUR ORDER WITHIN DAYS. WE HAD TO ADD ITEMS AND IT WAS NO PROBLEM. QUICK REPLIES AND I FOUND OUT ALL THE STAFF ARE MILITARY RESERVISTS.
I RECOMMEND THE ARMED FORCES MCSS."
From: Charles Zimmer of Danevang, TX


"MCSS is # 1 !!!"
From: MSgt John Parker of Crystal Springs, FL


"Just received my ABU's from the MCSS. I ordered them about two months ago and they are great. Take my advice and order from this vendor.
They have everything you need. My Belleville boots are fantastic and I am so proud to wear this uniform. Feels good to be in the Air Force.
Great service and great personnel over there.
In case you need the info, it's www.armedforcesmcss.us "
From: TSgt D. Davis of Tampa, FL


"This store has a wonderfull service. I'm currently station at Fort Benning G.A, and any time I need some of the best gear,
These people has it right at their store. I could call them at any time and within 3-5 days my gear gets to me without any problem.
This store has the flexibility that allows me to shop online and have my gear rigth when I need it. Thanks guys for all your support.
Keep up the good work and keep supplying our american heros with the best equipment ever. Hooah"
From: John Adams of Augusta, GA


Those of you who think this store is bad or a rip off or whatever you think are either to cheap to even be in NY or some kind of supply freaks.
The store has knowledgeable staff and always top quality products and if you can't find it there you can ask them to order it for you.
I shop a lot online from big supply dealers and find it a very unpleasant experience... You get your products late or broken or just the complete wrong product.
What the crap! When you need a product now for an upcoming mission, You need the Armed Forces MCSS."
From: Alam Jamal of Ozone Park, NY


My recent visit to your store and I must say I really enjoy my shopping experience.
You made me feel welcomed and treated me like a human being and not just a customer. Since I am in the Air Force I am recommending your store to alot of my Air Force personnel to shop at your store.
Especially when you get the new ABU's in. Keep up the good work!!!"
From: SrA. Trotman of Riverdale, MD


They have all the stuff you need and want. I am happy to shop there."
From: Cliff of New York, NY


"This place is fantastic. Not your regular post store. You can find all the new items you want.
And to boot, they even have tailoring and dry cleaning services. I'm glad that they are there. Keep on rolling armed forces mcss!!!"
From: Darnell of New York, NY


I would like to congratulate the mcss in jamaica for a fine job. I have only twice(and on post) seen any clothing sales store like this. There's excellent service and knowledge with px pricing.
I also like the fact that civis are not allowed to shop there. Keep up the good work."
From: George of Brooklyn, NY


I ordered a pair of belleville boots and a spec-ops over amor vest and received both items within 3 days.
Their prices were less than the rest of those guys. When i'm in NYC I plan to visit this clothing sales store.
I also read the newsletter and applaud the staff.
FYI for the bosses- there's a jerk posting bad info on your store. I checked the dla site before I bought from you and I know your legite.
Keep up the good work and thank you. "
From: David of Dayton, OH


I have been to about 12 different states and 7 countries worldwide and i have not seen one store like this.
NOT EVEN ON BASE! they have more stuff here than most MCSS on base. i live here in NY so it's easy for me to get there and i don't have to worry about the 2 hour drive to get to hamilton.
i see the other 2 people agree with me on this =]... i was just there on friday and these guys are AHEAD OF THE GAME with the new air force boot, the CAG 1 gloves by wiley x, but those r just a couple of things that stuck in my mind... these guys know everything about everything in their store. theyre professionals.
It just feels nice to be around people that are just like me. need i say more? oh and i read the complaint reports from complaintsboard and my3cents... it's from all the same guy... some sergeant over in OHIO (who's never been there, by the way) got his panties in a bun, so to speak... dont even listen to em"
From: Msgt Brian Hutchinson of Whitestone, NY

Armed Forces MCSS™ - Customer Testimonials


"I want to publicly thank the personnel at Armed Forces MCSS for their utmost professionalism and skill in dealing with my multiple orders and several in store visits.
I have already recommended your establishment to several Marines in my unit and my personal life. Keep up this level of customer service and I am sure you will obtain hundreds more of life long customers such as myself.
Thank You!
Semper Fi SGT Desmond A.De Leo, USMCR


The service is just that, actual service. I have found the staff to both be informative and reasonable.
My shopping experience has been more than that of the typical retailer and consumer. It was personal.
The selection, prices, and sales/ discounts make it a wholistic shopping experience."
From: SPC Fowlin of Jamaica, NY.


"Gentlemen, I would like to commend you all on doing an outstanding job.
I had many reservations after reading some negative comments from some individuals.
I am a MSgt and presently the leader of a HQ element heading to the AO. Your staff is the utmost in professional and the attention to detail you showed is second to few units
I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I would ask you to keep my credit card number on file as I expect to purchase again if not in bulk, through IMPAC via my Logistics Personnel, then personally.
I am looking forward to picking up my special order ABU Gortex in the two days you advised.
I'm sorry for those individuals and hope their tenure of leadership leads them to the door!
To all future purchasers read the Item and shipping description, ask simple questions and I'm sure you too will be a satisfied buyer!
Thanks again for the Spec Ops Speed Sling and all the gear I picked up!!"
From: Eric Fosse of Baldwin, NY


"I have recently had a the great opportunity to meet with the staff at this MCSS.
While in New York I made sure to stop by and check out this store. My brigade has done business with them and I receive newsletters that talks about how comprehensive they are to the wants and needs of service members.
Well, let me tell you something, the staff at this location was five stars. Anything that I have seen in the papers or heard the buzz about, they had it! All the newest googles, ballistic sunglasses, bags, boots, gear, ptw weapons, and so much more.
They had the new flame retardant clothing and a wide selection of optics for my weapon.
When I first walked in, ( I had to show my military I.D. to enter) I knew I was in soldiers heaven. WOW. This place has everything and more!!!
Take my advice, Armed Forces MCSS is the greatest store I have ever been to. I plan to keep shopping with them on their online catalog.
Thanks for the good work and support. William Anthony, CSM"
From: William Anthony of Glencoe, IL


CPT Garcia, who is the CEO of this company runs a tight ship. All staff are of the highest integrity and concern.
There seems to be junior and senior NCO's that voice abrasive comments concerning this contractor to the United States Federal Government.
Why it is that individuals would want to create false and libel statments as servicmembers and not be supportive of fellow servicemembers?
Once again, some people would rather be part of the problem than part of the solution! I have never had any problems with the Armed Forces MCSS.
You have my word as a Comissioned Officer. "
From: COL Tom Shiebert of Carroll, OH


Armed Forces MCSS - ONE STOP SHOP"
From: LTC Derek Riggs of Chantilly, VA


"I ORDERED FOR MY SQUAD AND RECEIVED OUR ORDER WITHIN DAYS. WE HAD TO ADD ITEMS AND IT WAS NO PROBLEM. QUICK REPLIES AND I FOUND OUT ALL THE STAFF ARE MILITARY RESERVISTS.
I RECOMMEND THE ARMED FORCES MCSS."
From: Charles Zimmer of Danevang, TX


"MCSS is # 1 !!!"
From: MSgt John Parker of Crystal Springs, FL


"Just received my ABU's from the MCSS. I ordered them about two months ago and they are great. Take my advice and order from this vendor.
They have everything you need. My Belleville boots are fantastic and I am so proud to wear this uniform. Feels good to be in the Air Force.
Great service and great personnel over there.
In case you need the info, it's www.armedforcesmcss.us "
From: TSgt D. Davis of Tampa, FL


"This store has a wonderfull service. I'm currently station at Fort Benning G.A, and any time I need some of the best gear,
These people has it right at their store. I could call them at any time and within 3-5 days my gear gets to me without any problem.
This store has the flexibility that allows me to shop online and have my gear rigth when I need it. Thanks guys for all your support.
Keep up the good work and keep supplying our american heros with the best equipment ever. Hooah"
From: John Adams of Augusta, GA


Those of you who think this store is bad or a rip off or whatever you think are either to cheap to even be in NY or some kind of supply freaks.
The store has knowledgeable staff and always top quality products and if you can't find it there you can ask them to order it for you.
I shop a lot online from big supply dealers and find it a very unpleasant experience... You get your products late or broken or just the complete wrong product.
What the crap! When you need a product now for an upcoming mission, You need the Armed Forces MCSS."
From: Alam Jamal of Ozone Park, NY


My recent visit to your store and I must say I really enjoy my shopping experience.
You made me feel welcomed and treated me like a human being and not just a customer. Since I am in the Air Force I am recommending your store to alot of my Air Force personnel to shop at your store.
Especially when you get the new ABU's in. Keep up the good work!!!"
From: SrA. Trotman of Riverdale, MD


They have all the stuff you need and want. I am happy to shop there."
From: Cliff of New York, NY


"This place is fantastic. Not your regular post store. You can find all the new items you want.
And to boot, they even have tailoring and dry cleaning services. I'm glad that they are there. Keep on rolling armed forces mcss!!!"
From: Darnell of New York, NY


I would like to congratulate the mcss in jamaica for a fine job. I have only twice(and on post) seen any clothing sales store like this. There's excellent service and knowledge with px pricing.
I also like the fact that civis are not allowed to shop there. Keep up the good work."
From: George of Brooklyn, NY


I ordered a pair of belleville boots and a spec-ops over amor vest and received both items within 3 days.
Their prices were less than the rest of those guys. When i'm in NYC I plan to visit this clothing sales store.
I also read the newsletter and applaud the staff.
FYI for the bosses- there's a jerk posting bad info on your store. I checked the dla site before I bought from you and I know your legite.
Keep up the good work and thank you. "
From: David of Dayton, OH


I have been to about 12 different states and 7 countries worldwide and i have not seen one store like this.
NOT EVEN ON BASE! they have more stuff here than most MCSS on base. i live here in NY so it's easy for me to get there and i don't have to worry about the 2 hour drive to get to hamilton.
i see the other 2 people agree with me on this =]... i was just there on friday and these guys are AHEAD OF THE GAME with the new air force boot, the CAG 1 gloves by wiley x, but those r just a couple of things that stuck in my mind... these guys know everything about everything in their store. theyre professionals.
It just feels nice to be around people that are just like me. need i say more? oh and i read the complaint reports from complaintsboard and my3cents... it's from all the same guy... some sergeant over in OHIO (who's never been there, by the way) got his panties in a bun, so to speak... dont even listen to em"
From: Msgt Brian Hutchinson of Whitestone, NY

Armed Forces MCSS™ - Customer Testimonials


"I want to publicly thank the personnel at Armed Forces MCSS for their utmost professionalism and skill in dealing with my multiple orders and several in store visits.
I have already recommended your establishment to several Marines in my unit and my personal life. Keep up this level of customer service and I am sure you will obtain hundreds more of life long customers such as myself.
Thank You!
Semper Fi SGT Desmond A.De Leo, USMCR


The service is just that, actual service. I have found the staff to both be informative and reasonable.
My shopping experience has been more than that of the typical retailer and consumer. It was personal.
The selection, prices, and sales/ discounts make it a wholistic shopping experience."
From: SPC Fowlin of Jamaica, NY.


"Gentlemen, I would like to commend you all on doing an outstanding job.
I had many reservations after reading some negative comments from some individuals.
I am a MSgt and presently the leader of a HQ element heading to the AO. Your staff is the utmost in professional and the attention to detail you showed is second to few units
I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I would ask you to keep my credit card number on file as I expect to purchase again if not in bulk, through IMPAC via my Logistics Personnel, then personally.
I am looking forward to picking up my special order ABU Gortex in the two days you advised.
I'm sorry for those individuals and hope their tenure of leadership leads them to the door!
To all future purchasers read the Item and shipping description, ask simple questions and I'm sure you too will be a satisfied buyer!
Thanks again for the Spec Ops Speed Sling and all the gear I picked up!!"
From: Eric Fosse of Baldwin, NY


"I have recently had a the great opportunity to meet with the staff at this MCSS.
While in New York I made sure to stop by and check out this store. My brigade has done business with them and I receive newsletters that talks about how comprehensive they are to the wants and needs of service members.
Well, let me tell you something, the staff at this location was five stars. Anything that I have seen in the papers or heard the buzz about, they had it! All the newest googles, ballistic sunglasses, bags, boots, gear, ptw weapons, and so much more.
They had the new flame retardant clothing and a wide selection of optics for my weapon.
When I first walked in, ( I had to show my military I.D. to enter) I knew I was in soldiers heaven. WOW. This place has everything and more!!!
Take my advice, Armed Forces MCSS is the greatest store I have ever been to. I plan to keep shopping with them on their online catalog.
Thanks for the good work and support. William Anthony, CSM"
From: William Anthony of Glencoe, IL


CPT Garcia, who is the CEO of this company runs a tight ship. All staff are of the highest integrity and concern.
There seems to be junior and senior NCO's that voice abrasive comments concerning this contractor to the United States Federal Government.
Why it is that individuals would want to create false and libel statments as servicmembers and not be supportive of fellow servicemembers?
Once again, some people would rather be part of the problem than part of the solution! I have never had any problems with the Armed Forces MCSS.
You have my word as a Comissioned Officer. "
From: COL Tom Shiebert of Carroll, OH


Armed Forces MCSS - ONE STOP SHOP"
From: LTC Derek Riggs of Chantilly, VA


"I ORDERED FOR MY SQUAD AND RECEIVED OUR ORDER WITHIN DAYS. WE HAD TO ADD ITEMS AND IT WAS NO PROBLEM. QUICK REPLIES AND I FOUND OUT ALL THE STAFF ARE MILITARY RESERVISTS.
I RECOMMEND THE ARMED FORCES MCSS."
From: Charles Zimmer of Danevang, TX


"MCSS is # 1 !!!"
From: MSgt John Parker of Crystal Springs, FL


"Just received my ABU's from the MCSS. I ordered them about two months ago and they are great. Take my advice and order from this vendor.
They have everything you need. My Belleville boots are fantastic and I am so proud to wear this uniform. Feels good to be in the Air Force.
Great service and great personnel over there.
In case you need the info, it's www.armedforcesmcss.us "
From: TSgt D. Davis of Tampa, FL


"This store has a wonderfull service. I'm currently station at Fort Benning G.A, and any time I need some of the best gear,
These people has it right at their store. I could call them at any time and within 3-5 days my gear gets to me without any problem.
This store has the flexibility that allows me to shop online and have my gear rigth when I need it. Thanks guys for all your support.
Keep up the good work and keep supplying our american heros with the best equipment ever. Hooah"
From: John Adams of Augusta, GA


Those of you who think this store is bad or a rip off or whatever you think are either to cheap to even be in NY or some kind of supply freaks.
The store has knowledgeable staff and always top quality products and if you can't find it there you can ask them to order it for you.
I shop a lot online from big supply dealers and find it a very unpleasant experience... You get your products late or broken or just the complete wrong product.
What the crap! When you need a product now for an upcoming mission, You need the Armed Forces MCSS."
From: Alam Jamal of Ozone Park, NY


My recent visit to your store and I must say I really enjoy my shopping experience.
You made me feel welcomed and treated me like a human being and not just a customer. Since I am in the Air Force I am recommending your store to alot of my Air Force personnel to shop at your store.
Especially when you get the new ABU's in. Keep up the good work!!!"
From: SrA. Trotman of Riverdale, MD


They have all the stuff you need and want. I am happy to shop there."
From: Cliff of New York, NY


"This place is fantastic. Not your regular post store. You can find all the new items you want.
And to boot, they even have tailoring and dry cleaning services. I'm glad that they are there. Keep on rolling armed forces mcss!!!"
From: Darnell of New York, NY


I would like to congratulate the mcss in jamaica for a fine job. I have only twice(and on post) seen any clothing sales store like this. There's excellent service and knowledge with px pricing.
I also like the fact that civis are not allowed to shop there. Keep up the good work."
From: George of Brooklyn, NY


I ordered a pair of belleville boots and a spec-ops over amor vest and received both items within 3 days.
Their prices were less than the rest of those guys. When i'm in NYC I plan to visit this clothing sales store.
I also read the newsletter and applaud the staff.
FYI for the bosses- there's a jerk posting bad info on your store. I checked the dla site before I bought from you and I know your legite.
Keep up the good work and thank you. "
From: David of Dayton, OH


I have been to about 12 different states and 7 countries worldwide and i have not seen one store like this.
NOT EVEN ON BASE! they have more stuff here than most MCSS on base. i live here in NY so it's easy for me to get there and i don't have to worry about the 2 hour drive to get to hamilton.
i see the other 2 people agree with me on this =]... i was just there on friday and these guys are AHEAD OF THE GAME with the new air force boot, the CAG 1 gloves by wiley x, but those r just a couple of things that stuck in my mind... these guys know everything about everything in their store. theyre professionals.
It just feels nice to be around people that are just like me. need i say more? oh and i read the complaint reports from complaintsboard and my3cents... it's from all the same guy... some sergeant over in OHIO (who's never been there, by the way) got his panties in a bun, so to speak... dont even listen to em"
From: Msgt Brian Hutchinson of Whitestone, NY