DALLAS (AFRNS) -- Thanks to expanded online service, military retirees can now use exchange optical shops and vision centers for eyewear regardless of where they live.

Two new partner Web sites for glasses and contact lenses have been added to the Exchange Online Mall at www.aafes.com.

After logging in, authorized shoppers who click on the new "Glasses & Contacts" link now have access to the prices comparable to those found in the exchanges' brick-and-mortar optical shops and vision centers through FramesDirect.com and MilitaryContacts.net.

"These sites have been set up to offer the same opening price points exchange shoppers find at our optical shops and vision center facilities on military installations," said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Ric Peterson, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's director of professional services.

Dr. Peterson said the sites solve some long-standing issues by delivering the eyewear benefit to an authorized shopper's front door. Now, any beneficiary can use the Internet for discount eyewear service, especially those retirees and their families without access to traditional exchange facilities.

With single vision eyeglasses starting at just $39, FramesDirect.com's Exchange Online Mall site features some 50,000 prescription frame styles and 8,000 sunglasses from more than 200 brands, all discounted 10 to 30 percent with free shipping. The site also allows people to upload pictures and virtually try on different frame styles.

MilitaryContacts.net offers prices up to 30 percent less than the leading mail-order contact lens provider, and orders of $50 or more always receive free shipping.

"Ordering from either site couldn't be easier," said Don Walker, AAFES merchandise manager. "Shoppers can e-mail or fax their prescription or even just provide their eye doctor's name and phone number, and if the prescription is on file, the sites will validate and fill the order." (Courtesy of AAFES)