VANGUARD website

[Sarge]

OK, I have a question. Is there a third grade class running the Vanguard website? I have been told time and time again "just give them some time and they will upgrade their website" and "they are just getting used to handling CAP gear"...still their website stinks! One of the absolute WORST ever e-commerce sites in history. Confusing, poorly organized, contorted images and no pictures of alot of stuff,(how long does it take?) just plain bad! It is an embarrassment to show it to new members looking for uniform sites. And why cant they offer "packages" like the HOCK does? Oh yeah, that would be too easy...Granted, the HOCK site is not exactly slick or "cutting edge", but at least it is manageable. I would send this to the CAP liaison at Vanguard, but do not have her e-mail address. Message: I would buy more from Vanguard, but I cant even see what I am ordering in some cases. Get a clue and get with the program. These people need website help in a big way. Is anyone at NHQ equally appalled by this mess? Some web-savvy CAPer ought to consult with them...Your thoughts???

[Al Sayre]

You're preaching to the chior here...

[JC004]

I spoke with them about the web site mess, and they said they're going to be making it not suck.  ::holds breath::

[mikeylikey]

I spoke with them about the web site mess, and they said they're going to be making it not suck.  ::holds breath::

After holding his breath......he dies.  Thanks Vanguard!

[LtCol White]

If you look at their military sites, there are even items there with no photos. Strange since they have been producing them for YEARS

[RogueLeader]

OK, I have a question. Is there a third grade class running the Vanguard website? I have been told time and time again "just give them some time and they will upgrade their website" and "they are just getting used to handling CAP gear"...still their website stinks! One of the absolute WORST ever e-commerce sites in history. Confusing, poorly organized, contorted images and no pictures of alot of stuff,(how long does it take?) just plain bad! It is an embarrassment to show it to new members looking for uniform sites. And why cant they offer "packages" like the HOCK does? Oh yeah, that would be too easy...Granted, the HOCK site is not exactly slick or "cutting edge", but at least it is manageable. I would send this to the CAP liaison at Vanguard, but do not have her e-mail address. Message: I would buy more from Vanguard, but I cant even see what I am ordering in some cases. Get a clue and get with the program. These people need website help in a big way. Is anyone at NHQ equally appalled by this mess? Some web-savvy CAPer ought to consult with them...Your thoughts???

Look at the following:

In his "From Your National Commander" column in the March/April Volunteer MG Pineda said this:

As your national commander, I encourage all CAP volunteers and our loyal supporters to communicate your suggestions and concerns.  Individuals with agenda items that have not been brought before the National Board or those wishing to share shining examples of outstanding performance and efficiency are encouarged to email the deputy chiefs of staff or CAP National Vice Commander Brig. Gen. Amy Courter.  Their contact information is available at www.cap.gov

FYI, the deputy chiefs of staff are:
Training: Col. David L. Mikelson
Support: Col. Eileen Parker
Operations: Col. Andrew Skiba
Strategic Missions:  Brig. Gen. Richard Anderson

So, a major problem in CAP appears to have been solved in that there is now a sanctioned way for any CAP member to directly contact high level CAP officer with their ideas and suggestions.  Granted, just because you can send them an email, doesn't mean they will act on it.  But, it has a better chance of at least being read than an email started off by 2LT Snuffy Smith in the Podunk Cadet Squadron does of getting up there. 

However, we should be careful in how we use this because if they get deluged with a bunch of really bad comments they will decide that they will need to have them "filtered" a bit by lower ranking CAP staff. 

So, put your thinking and writing caps on!

I think that one of the above could help you out.

[Stonewall]

None of my experiences with Vangaurd have been simple/pleasent/impressive.

From a company that has made insignia for the military since, at least I've been in, you'd think they'd have their "stuff" in one sock.  I've ordered stuff through them for both military and CAP stuff and all 3 times its been one helluva task.

And yes, their site sucks! 

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing without having to navigate through some 3rd grade run website where half of the items don't seem to have images.  Grrr..

[LtCol White]

Things sure worked well with the old bookstore!! It was fast and easy.

[Lancer]

Well, as we were told at our wing conference by the Vanguard representative there, the new website should be live by the end of May and it will make all of us happy. Of course, until that time comes, we're all ::holding our breath::

I was told this as well when I talked to Beth Maul prior to the conference when I was ordering my corporate service uniform. That was my first time ordering from Vanguard and I was pleased with the results, not pleased with the pricetag, but at least I got what I ordered and it came rather quickly considering the circumstances.

The interesting part was the display near their cash register with new 'prototypes' of kitschy items they can splash our logo on and sell to us, pretty much everyone who got near them, they asked their opinion of the items, especially the cadets.

[TankerT]

Things sure worked well with the old bookstore!! It was fast and easy.

Um.  You talking about Barnes and Noble?  Borders?

I'm sure you're not talking about the CAP Bookstore.

[LtCol White]

Things sure worked well with the old bookstore!! It was fast and easy.

Um.  You talking about Barnes and Noble?  Borders?

I'm sure you're not talking about the CAP Bookstore.

Yep, I never had a single problem over the years with them. always had my orders within a week of ordering with no mistakes

[Stonewall]

Every penny I made as a cadet went to the bookstore (or Brigade Quartermaster).  I'd order at least once a month from the Bookstore and only had one problem.

WIWAC I ordered the CAP Business cards; 250 for $12.00 or something and they wouldn't put "383RD Search and Rescue Squadron" on them because it wasn't a "real unit".  Pssshhh, what do they know.  It was real in my mind.

[alamrcn]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 


...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

- Ace

[LtCol White]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 


...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

- Ace

Isn't that what we are now wearing on our uniforms for any item they dont have shown? 

[RogueLeader]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 


...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

- Ace

Isn't that what we are now wearing on our uniforms for any item they dont have shown? 

I've even got that on my name tapes

[alamrcn]

Isn't that what we are now wearing on our uniforms for any item they dont have shown? 

That particular item is what the National Capitol Wing shoulder patch looks like - the same one they have used since January 26, 1953. But it still might be too new to get a picture of it. Ya think the folks in DC are happy with the Vangard website?

Here's the link to their infamous NO PHOTO image...
http://www.civilairpatrolstore.com/store/images/nophoto.jpg
Let's see who can come up with the most creative way to use it!  
That is, more so than the website does.

-Ace

[Lancer]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 

Hey, that's the new OPSEC/INFOSEC Speciality Badge! Sweet! 

...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

No kidding, at least put up a Java based Tank game! Hehehe.

[RogueLeader]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 

Hey, that's the new OPSEC/INFOSEC Speciality Badge! Sweet! 

...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

No kidding, at least put up a Java based Tank game! Hehehe.

Hey!  at least the tank game was fun to play, instead of Vangaurd's site.  what is Vanguard the vanguard of anyway?  Lousy service with a lousy website?

[Pylon]

And while they're working on taking photos of items that haven't had one in the last year, maybe someone could teach them how to make a thumbnail image properly??   

The proper way does not involve taking a 1:1.5 or 1:2 ratio rectangular image and smashing that into a 1:1 square thumbnail.   

[LtCol White]

And while they're working on taking photos of items that haven't had one in the last year, maybe someone could teach them how to make a thumbnail image properly??   

The proper way does not involve taking a 1:1.5 or 1:2 ratio rectangular image and smashing that into a 1:1 square thumbnail.   

You mean like the new Photo ID's?? 

[RogueLeader]

And while they're working on taking photos of items that haven't had one in the last year, maybe someone could teach them how to make a thumbnail image properly??   

The proper way does not involve taking a 1:1.5 or 1:2 ratio rectangular image and smashing that into a 1:1 square thumbnail.   

You mean like the new Photo ID's?? 

Or the 101 cards?

[Sgt. Savage]

HEY, did you see this?!!  I can't believe we're finally going to get to wear them...

You better get to Vanguard's CAP website now so you can be added to the Back/Order list, and if they come you'll get one! 

Hey, that's the new OPSEC/INFOSEC Speciality Badge! Sweet! 

...and can they get that stupid animation off the front page?! 

No kidding, at least put up a Java based Tank game! Hehehe.

Hey!  at least the tank game was fun to play, instead of Vangaurd's site.  what is Vanguard the vanguard of anyway?  Lousy service with a lousy website?

I ordered one of those... it didn't fit.

[brasda91]

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing

Aaaamen!  Those were the days.  I was just thinking the same thing yesterday.

[JC004]

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing

Aaaamen!  Those were the days.  I was just thinking the same thing yesterday.

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

[stillamarine]

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing

Aaaamen!  Those were the days.  I was just thinking the same thing yesterday.

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

With no pictures of course!

[RogueLeader]

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing

Aaaamen!  Those were the days.  I was just thinking the same thing yesterday.

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

After four calls to check on it's status, being told that it was back-ordered, then to be told that it was never back-ordered and it was a computer glitch.  Finally, you decide to cancele, and want your money back- they send it
<true story on getting an AF Blue shirt>

[Phillip]

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

Here's the cover of that catalog:

[RogueLeader]

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

Here's the cover of that catalog:

And every other page- except where to send the money to.

[JC004]

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

Here's the cover of that catalog:

And every other page- except where to send the money to.

lol        So true.

[dwb]

I recently had the need to purchase some new rank insignia, so I decided to order from Vanguard.  I also had to get some nametapes/plates for other members of my squadron, which helped me to justify the shipping cost.

Something I've noticed is that the search box is your friend.  Couldn't find the grey epaulets, or the blazer nameplate, without it.  Once I stopped trying to browse the categories, and just searched for every item I needed, life was good.

Interestingly, the picture for the Major epaulets is actually the velcro Major epaulets, though none of the other velcro epaulets (including Major) have pictures next to them.  Also, the other regular epaulets all have the correct pictures.

In short, their site still needs a lot of work.  Not sure how much revenue they get from us, and whether it's worth their while to take pictures of the 200 items that are missing pictures.  Time will tell, I suppose.

[JC004]

Something I've noticed is that the search box is your friend.  Couldn't find the grey epaulets, or the blazer nameplate, without it.  Once I stopped trying to browse the categories, and just searched for every item I needed, life was good.

Yea...epaulets (grey) are under Mess Dress.   

[jimmydeanno]

I miss the bookstore catalog.  I miss having a catalog I could throw in my bag and look at in class, at work, on the jon, or wherever and be able to get an idea of pricing

Aaaamen!  Those were the days.  I was just thinking the same thing yesterday.

I'm sure we could get a catalog from Vanguard.  HOWEVER, it would cost $5, plus $7 shipping.  Aaaaand it would take 3 months to arrive.

They'll still send you a CAPMART catalog, they still have thousands...all the item numbers are the same, I used to live down the street from Vanguard when they started supplying us.  I'd just walk in and they'd pick the stuff off the shelves for me, if I needed embroidery, they'd do it same day for me.  Never any issues, except they only stock the incorrect size of the NH Wing patch... But now that I moved, I use the hock.

[JC004]

They'll still send you a CAPMART catalog, they still have thousands...all the item numbers are the same, I used to live down the street from Vanguard when they started supplying us.  I'd just walk in and they'd pick the stuff off the shelves for me, if I needed embroidery, they'd do it same day for me.  Never any issues, except they only stock the incorrect size of the NH Wing patch... But now that I moved, I use the hock.

There's something to be said for going to them and making them do it then and there.   

[RogueLeader]

They'll still send you a CAPMART catalog, they still have thousands...all the item numbers are the same, I used to live down the street from Vanguard when they started supplying us.  I'd just walk in and they'd pick the stuff off the shelves for me, if I needed embroidery, they'd do it same day for me.  Never any issues, except they only stock the incorrect size of the NH Wing patch... But now that I moved, I use the hock.

There's something to be said for going to them and making them do it then and there.   

Too bad you don't still live there, and we could go through you, for say an extra 5% plus acttuall shiping and handeling, not the $7 for a ribbon deal.  Oh well.

[LTC_Gadget]

Hey,
I wonder if this'll work.

Someone in some thread here had the name of a POC @ Vanguard, with an email address.

There's more of us than there are of them, obviously.  And we have a more pressing and genuine desire to see the 'no picture' situation rectified than do they.

How 'bout we figure out the optimal image size for pictures of items on the Vanguard site.  Then, if you have an item for which there is no pic on the website, you take a digital picture of it, (grey background?) adjust it to the "standard" size that they're using for their images, and email the picture to the Vanguard POC.  Tell 'em, to use it with your compliments.

Ok, that was the brainstorm.  Now tell me why it won't work..

V/R,

[JC004]

Hey,
I wonder if this'll work.

Someone in some thread here had the name of a POC @ Vanguard, with an email address.

There's more of us than there are of them, obviously.  And we have a more pressing and genuine desire to see the 'no picture' situation rectified than do they.

How 'bout we figure out the optimal image size for pictures of items on the Vanguard site.  Then, if you have an item for which there is no pic on the website, you take a digital picture of it, (grey background?) adjust it to the "standard" size that they're using for their images, and email the picture to the Vanguard POC.  Tell 'em, to use it with your compliments.

Ok, that was the brainstorm.  Now tell me why it won't work..

V/R,

They told me they're working on their site...not sure if that will include new pictures, or simply replace ALL pictures with the infamous placeholder.  BUT, if they can't seem to take pictures with a digital camera, I don't see why we couldn't do it just so our members can see the items. 

Request for whoever from Black Van HQ is watching...Vanguard should have a section on the site for new items as they come out.

[Sgt. Savage]

You know, they wouldn't have so many pictures to do if they would stop listing every single size of every single item seperately. Haven't they ever hear of drop down menus?

[JC004]

You know, they wouldn't have so many pictures to do if they would stop listing every single size of every single item seperately. Haven't they ever hear of drop down menus?

From what I gather looking at the rest of the site, they haven't heard of much.   

[Al Sayre]

We had a presentation from Susan Easter at the MS Wing Conference, part of that covered Vanguard.  The crux:

They are aware of the problems and are doing what they can to fix them.

If you are only ordering a couple of items like ribbons, call them on the phone to order and they will reduce the shipping charges.

The money that NHQ is getting from Vanguard is going into a fund to pay for regional training bases. (These new training bases are also part of the objective of the Wing Banker Program)

[jayleswo]

I called a few weeks ago to order a couple of things on the phone after reading here that they would reduce the shipping charges and they knew nothing about that.

[LtCol White]

I called a few weeks ago to order a couple of things on the phone after reading here that they would reduce the shipping charges and they knew nothing about that.

Did you tell them you were with the "US" CAP? Perhpas they were confused.

[RogueLeader]

I called a few weeks ago to order a couple of things on the phone after reading here that they would reduce the shipping charges and they knew nothing about that.

Did you tell them you were with the "US" CAP? Perhpas they were confused.

I thought being confused and inept was a requirement for employment.

[Pylon]

I thought being confused and inept was a requirement for employment.

Okay, okay... let's play nice.

Yeah, they have a lot of issues to work through, but let's not directly insult the people there.  Mmkay?thanks.

[RogueLeader]

I thought being confused and inept was a requirement for employment.

Okay, okay... let's play nice.

Yeah, they have a lot of issues to work through, but let's not directly insult the people there.  Mmkay?thanks.

Sorry, just got done talking w/ them and got a little fired up.  You're right, and they do try.

[LTC_Gadget]

OK, what's the diff between CAP0836D and CAP0836G?

Thanks in advance.

V/R,

[Stonewall]

In my personal experience during an exchange of about 4 emails, no, they do not try.  I'm sure someone does, as its their job as customer service representatives to treat us well enough to make us repeat customers.

Asked if Vanguard could make white/blue military badges since they now make CAP's stuff and already had the designs since they make'em for the military.

Reply:  No, CAP members cannot wear military badges.

My polite response:  Actually, ma'am, here is a quote from CAP's uniform manual, CAPM 39-1, that says which military badges people can wear in CAP as long as they earned them from competent authority.

Reply:  I'll have to check, but I'm sure you're not allowed.

My response:  Ma'am, as one of thousands of military veterans in CAP, I have already done the research for you, as I quoted the regulation in my previous email, CAP members are in fact authorized to wear military badges.  But instead of wearing blue on OD as is allowed, it would allow for more uniformity if we could have the badges that Vanguard already makes produced in white on ultramarine (blue).

Reply: Most likely not, but I'll look into it.

I don't call that "trying".  Never heard back from her.

[Pylon]

OK, what's the diff between CAP0836D and CAP0836G?

Thanks in advance.

V/R,

CAP0836D, aka: USAF Aux MAJCOM patch:  The "original" MAJCOM patch that identifies us as CAP & the Air Force Auxiliary.  Being phased out already in favor of the new "CAP-only/Corporate-only" patch below.  Will eventually be disallowed on all corporate and USAF-style uniforms.

CAP0836G, aka: U.S. Civil Air Patrol MAJCOM patch: New creation of national headquarters which does not mention the Air Force.  Authorized for CAP corporate and USAF-style uniforms, and being phased in as the only MAJCOM patch authorized.

[Rangersigo]

I have had equally bad experience.  Wrong items arriving, broken orders and poor communication.  I tend to use the Hock as their response is much better and shipping is MUCH more reasonable!

[jimmydeanno]

That is weird.  As a 'for profit' company, you'd think that they would do whatever you asked.  If you wanted it on 'bright pink', as long as they had the materials, for the right price, you'd think they'd do it.  They already have the templates...

[Pylon]

I've had something missing or wrong with every order I've had with Vanguard.  That's about 5 to 6 orders, if I recall correctly.   Their customer service people corrected all of the problems, and usually in a semi-timely manner, but it just doesn't look good when you combine their quality control errors with a poor website and steep prices.

For example, my most recent order was of a CAP plaque to honor our outgoing squadron commander.  I could have gone to the local trophy shop and ordered one up for much less, but I wanted something with the CAP seal on it - so I ordered the plaque blank from Vanguard.

I paid for 2-day express shipping, because I wanted to ensure my order was there in time for the banquet.  With only a 2-week window, I didn't want to mess around.  $55+ and two days later my box from Vanguard arrives.

What to my wondering eyes doesn't appear, but a CAP plaque!  They sent me just a blank piece of plaque wood.  No engraving plate, no CAP seal, nothing.  $55+ with shipping for a $5 rack item from any local trophy shop.  WTF!

I go back to the website and re-review the description (since, of course, they have no photo of the item on the website   ).  Yup, description says comes with gold brass plate and CAP seal.  I call Vanguard, they admit error on their part, and they promise to send a replacement.

Replacement doesn't come for 5 or 6 days, since they didn't send it express.  (Recall, I paid for 2-day express shipping at a cost of $20 when I first ordered).  The replacement has all of the elements it should, but why was it such a hassle?   Who, when packing an order, would place a blank plaque mounting board in a box with an invoice for $55 and not have a dim lightbulb go off?

Yes, Vanguard has decent quality on their products.  Yes, Vanguard reps seem to do their best when I talk to them.  But their quality control is horrendous, their website crappy, their shipping prices off the chart, and their item prices a bit steep, too.

But "they're working on it" they tell us.  

[LtCol White]

In my personal experience during an exchange of about 4 emails, no, they do not try.  I'm sure someone does, as its their job as customer service representatives to treat us well enough to make us repeat customers.

Asked if Vanguard could make white/blue military badges since they now make CAP's stuff and already had the designs since they make'em for the military.

Reply:  No, CAP members cannot wear military badges.

My polite response:  Actually, ma'am, here is a quote from CAP's uniform manual, CAPM 39-1, that says which military badges people can wear in CAP as long as they earned them from competent authority.

Reply:  I'll have to check, but I'm sure you're not allowed.

My response:  Ma'am, as one of thousands of military veterans in CAP, I have already done the research for you, as I quoted the regulation in my previous email, CAP members are in fact authorized to wear military badges.  But instead of wearing blue on OD as is allowed, it would allow for more uniformity if we could have the badges that Vanguard already makes produced in white on ultramarine (blue).

Reply: Most likely not, but I'll look into it.

I don't call that "trying".  Never heard back from her.

In case you don't know who you spoke with, you might call back and try asking to speak to a manager who might be more receptive. Better yet, when LAWG had our WG HQ patches made, I dealt with Christine Gratis there on the project. She was very helpful and responsive and did a great job. She deals with all the custom made items and perhaps she can help you. Her e-mail is gratis@vanguard.mil

Try giving her a call on it.

[Lancer]

My first order to Vanguard was a decent one, except for the price, but it was right. I was told to contact  Beth Maul, cap@vanguardmil.com. She was very nice and knew exactly what I needed to order to complete my order for the corporate uniform. They even shipped the order ahead of the time specified which was a nice surprise.

I understand everyone's frustration, and hope for the best with our future with Vanguard and I believe what I was told about a new website. The Hock is good in a pinch, but the quality on some items isn't that great. And Tom still owes me a couple stickers from MONTHS ago... so it is what it is.

[alamrcn]

I'm sure someone does, as its their job as customer service representatives to treat us well enough to make us repeat customers.

Nah, no need...
They have us locked-in with the "Cease" orders sent out to all their competition. I wonder if National HQ would even try to break whatever contract with them for failure to perform.

Hey, wouldn't a copy of that contract be available to membership on request? I'm not sure what the individual member's rights are, or who COULD actually make that request.

I just called the other day and checked on the newish ARCHER patches I ordered through the website in February. The woman on the phone pulled up my order to confirm I indeed ordered them (confirmed), then said she was checking the stock levels of the item (none)... then there was a pause, followed by kind of a disgruntled sigh on her end. I was then told it would be about SIX (6) more weeks.

Whatever perpetual inventory system they have in place, she could probably see:  Qty on-hand, Qty on customer back-order, Last warehouse replenisment date, and Warehouse orders pending. I'm guessing that the "orders pending" didn't have anything there... till I called! SofaB!

-Ace

[LtCol White]

I'm sure someone does, as its their job as customer service representatives to treat us well enough to make us repeat customers.

Nah, no need...
They have us locked-in with the "Cease" orders sent out to all their competition. I wonder if National HQ would even try to break whatever contract with them for failure to perform.

Hey, wouldn't a copy of that contract be available to membership on request? I'm not sure what the individual member's rights are, or who COULD actually make that request.

I just called the other day and checked on the newish ARCHER patches I ordered through the website in February. The woman on the phone pulled up my order to confirm I indeed ordered them (confirmed), then said she was checking the stock levels of the item (none)... then there was a pause, followed by kind of a disgruntled sigh on her end. I was then told it would be about SIX (6) more weeks.

Whatever perpetual inventory system they have in place, she could probably see:  Qty on-hand, Qty on customer back-order, Last warehouse replenisment date, and Warehouse orders pending. I'm guessing that the "orders pending" didn't have anything there... till I called! SofaB!

-Ace

Since we are not a public entity, the contracts are considered confidential to the general employees/members.

[jimmydeanno]

I agree with many of the posts here, but I had a discussion with one of the nice ladies that works there one time while I was waiting for my 'embroidered on demand' shirt.

I asked why they were out of stock on a lot of items, and why the slow turn around to get them back in stock.

Her reply was (not an exact quote, but pretty close)...

"When we took ownership of the CAPMART inventory, we had stock of almost everything.  While analyzing what we had, it came to our attention that we weren't provided with color codes, medal forms, etc.  So as we ran out, we needed to 'recreate' the item from scratch.  Some we got before we ran out, some we are still working on."

So apparantly they had to research colors and manufacturers for the ribbons, create blanks to make the mini medals, get color codes for epaulet sleeves, etc.  Which adds to their difficulty in getting orders out.

But that was a year ago, so...

[LtCol White]

I agree with many of the posts here, but I had a discussion with one of the nice ladies that works there one time while I was waiting for my 'embroidered on demand' shirt.

I asked why they were out of stock on a lot of items, and why the slow turn around to get them back in stock.

Her reply was (not an exact quote, but pretty close)...

"When we took ownership of the CAPMART inventory, we had stock of almost everything.  While analyzing what we had, it came to our attention that we weren't provided with color codes, medal forms, etc.  So as we ran out, we needed to 'recreate' the item from scratch.  Some we got before we ran out, some we are still working on."

So apparantly they had to research colors and manufacturers for the ribbons, create blanks to make the mini medals, get color codes for epaulet sleeves, etc.  Which adds to their difficulty in getting orders out.

But that was a year ago, so...

You should have told her "be sure you dont make the epaulets in grey. Those are the old ones. The new ones are supposed to be blue"

[Ford73Diesel]

I'm still waiting on mini C/Capt insignia I ordered a few months ago.

[JC004]

I agree with many of the posts here, but I had a discussion with one of the nice ladies that works there one time while I was waiting for my 'embroidered on demand' shirt.

I asked why they were out of stock on a lot of items, and why the slow turn around to get them back in stock.

Her reply was (not an exact quote, but pretty close)...

"When we took ownership of the CAPMART inventory, we had stock of almost everything.  While analyzing what we had, it came to our attention that we weren't provided with color codes, medal forms, etc.  So as we ran out, we needed to 'recreate' the item from scratch.  Some we got before we ran out, some we are still working on."

So apparantly they had to research colors and manufacturers for the ribbons, create blanks to make the mini medals, get color codes for epaulet sleeves, etc.  Which adds to their difficulty in getting orders out.

But that was a year ago, so...

That is ridiculous!  They've been at this insignia-producing thing for how long, and they didn't even consider that?  Come on...  I think I will start an underground CAP supply source.  Hmmmm...

[bosshawk]

An item to ponder: I was told by someone at National to only deal with Beth Maul.  In my limited experience with Vanguard, that seems to work best.

Unfortunate that this has to be done, because for years I bought insignia from Vanguard.  Of course, most of those were in the PX on an Army Post and they were always top quality.

I am like a lot of you folks: I can't figure out what is wrong with the current Vanguard.  Has anyone complained to National?  That is possible one way to get the message across.

[acarlson]

In my personal experience during an exchange of about 4 emails, no, they do not try.  I'm sure someone does, as its their job as customer service representatives to treat us well enough to make us repeat customers.

I agree... they have no idea "how" to try... 
and I disagree... the cust. service reps don't try at all... they could never find the orders!
and I disagree...  I am not a repeat customer... I'm tired of banging my head against a wall...  I buy from The Hock Shop, or the local A/N surplus store... or for those AF only items, I make the drive to McGuire AFB in NJ.  I will never attempt to buy from Vandguard. 

[Lancer]

I was told to contact  Beth Maul, cap@vanguardmil.com.

I was told by someone at National to only deal with Beth Maul.

Wow...does anyone hear an echo in here? 

[SDF_Specialist]

My worst expirience with Vanguard has been every expirience. I placed an order on 1-February for a Corporate Service Jacket, and brushed name plate. I requested overnight shipping, hoping this would speed the process up. I got every thing on the 26 of February. I called to find out why it took so long to process my order, only to find out that the size service coat I wanted was on back order. Why couldn't I be informed of this? That would make too much sense.

[Lancer]

My worst expirience with Vanguard has been every expirience. I placed an order on 1-February for a Corporate Service Jacket, and brushed name plate. I requested overnight shipping, hoping this would speed the process up. I got every thing on the 26 of February. I called to find out why it took so long to process my order, only to find out that the size service coat I wanted was on back order. Why couldn't I be informed of this? That would make too much sense.

Did you phone in your order? That is the benefit of talking to someone there, especially an operator such as Beth Maul who knows better than anyone our program needs. She was able to tell me for everything I needed, if it was in stock. Also, I don't believe you can get overnight shipping on the brushed nameplate since there is some lead time needed for putting your name on it. I know this added to the delay of me getting my order as well, but it ended up coming sooner than I was told as well.

Moral of the story. Call.

[ColonelJack]

I haven't really had any bad dealings with Vanguard.  I just had one real complaint -- almost a year ago I ordered (for display purposes only) a set of brigadier general and major general epaulets.  The Brig Gen came immediately; the Maj Gen was on back order, but my credit card was charged.  I still haven't seen the two-star slides.

That, and my corporate service coat didn't come with sleeve braid (like the description when I ordered said it would).

Jack

[mikeylikey]

My worst expirience with Vanguard has been every expirience. I placed an order on 1-February for a Corporate Service Jacket, and brushed name plate. I requested overnight shipping, hoping this would speed the process up. I got every thing on the 26 of February. I called to find out why it took so long to process my order, only to find out that the size service coat I wanted was on back order. Why couldn't I be informed of this? That would make too much sense.

Nothing against you and no direspect, but I think you are the first one to put "USCAP" in your sig!  OUTSTANDING!

[SDF_Specialist]

My worst expirience with Vanguard has been every expirience. I placed an order on 1-February for a Corporate Service Jacket, and brushed name plate. I requested overnight shipping, hoping this would speed the process up. I got every thing on the 26 of February. I called to find out why it took so long to process my order, only to find out that the size service coat I wanted was on back order. Why couldn't I be informed of this? That would make too much sense.

Did you phone in your order? That is the benefit of talking to someone there, especially an operator such as Beth Maul who knows better than anyone our program needs. She was able to tell me for everything I needed, if it was in stock. Also, I don't believe you can get overnight shipping on the brushed nameplate since there is some lead time needed for putting your name on it. I know this added to the delay of me getting my order as well, but it ended up coming sooner than I was told as well.

Moral of the story. Call.

Yeah, I know that the order will take some time. I was just trying to speed the process up since most other companies I've dealt with seem to speed things up when overnight shipping is requested. That incident is not the first for me, but the one that made me decide to stop using Vanguard, and give THE HOCK a chance.

[SDF_Specialist]

My worst expirience with Vanguard has been every expirience. I placed an order on 1-February for a Corporate Service Jacket, and brushed name plate. I requested overnight shipping, hoping this would speed the process up. I got every thing on the 26 of February. I called to find out why it took so long to process my order, only to find out that the size service coat I wanted was on back order. Why couldn't I be informed of this? That would make too much sense.

Nothing against you and no direspect, but I think you are the first one to put "USCAP" in your sig!  OUTSTANDING!

Wonder if they'll start producing U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes?

[MIKE]

They already are... Well Vanguard is.

[JC004]

They already are... Well Vanguard is.

The slanted writing is free...

U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes

[acarlson]

They already are... Well Vanguard is.

The slanted writing is free...

U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes

WOW with a picture of the cloth tape!   <sigh, I'm still not getting my hopes up...>

[JC004]

They already are... Well Vanguard is.

The slanted writing is free...

U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes

WOW with a picture of the cloth tape!   <sigh, I'm still not getting my hopes up...>

They added the picture accidentally.  What folks DON'T know is that the real pictures actually exist on Vanguard's servers, but they put up No-Image buttons to annoy us.

[mikeylikey]

HEY!  I am sick of hearing the suggestion of phoning orders in!  Why are they on line with an on-line store if we are not able to successfully order on line!  They have had MORE THAN ENOUGH time to get with the program.  They are only sowcasing their inability to run a successful business.  If they did not have the Govt contracts, they would no more than a "mom and pop" on-line retailer.

[JC004]

HEY!  I am sick of hearing the suggestion of phoning orders in!  Why are they on line with an on-line store if we are not able to successfully order on line!  They have had MORE THAN ENOUGH time to get with the program.  They are only sowcasing their inability to run a successful business.  If they did not have the Govt contracts, they would no more than a "mom and pop" on-line retailer.

Agreed.  And now to have loads of orders for stuff that says "BACKORDERED."  "Yes, I need 50 nametapes - the name is B-A-C-K-O-R-D-E-R-E-D"

[Lancer]

HEY!  I am sick of hearing the suggestion of phoning orders in!  Why are they on line with an on-line store if we are not able to successfully order on line!  They have had MORE THAN ENOUGH time to get with the program.  They are only sowcasing their inability to run a successful business.  If they did not have the Govt contracts, they would no more than a "mom and pop" on-line retailer.

HEY! I'm sick of offering the suggestion. HEY! I'm sick of having to call myself! HEY! I totally agree they have to get their proverbial 'stuff' together. But I'm also getting tired of the same people bemoaning Vanguard like a broken record. We get it, they need help, they're working on it.

If they were only as good as Amazon or Newegg...we wouldn't have to even have this conversation.

[afgeo4]

Yes... we need help and we don't have it all together either and we're working on it too, so lay off Vanguard!  Oh... wait a minute... they're a business. They get paid to ship us the right items for the right prices in reasonable time. We do not. Perhaps they assume that "hey, they're just a bunch of wannabes"?  Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe they just don't care. After all, what business would allow ONE person to be properly trained to serve over 50,000 clients? Scratch that... what successful business? Vanguard is a disgrace. It's a disgrace to itself, its employees, the men and women they claim to support (the military and CAP) and most of all, they're a disgrace to this country. Over 50,000 volunteers in this country give their money, time, even lives and they have ONE competent person to support us? It's absolutely appalling! Tell these stories to someone in the real military or someone in the Red Cross or Salvation Army or any other nationwide volunteer organization and they'll think it's appalling too. I can only imagine what the members of the US Congress would say if they knew.

[alamrcn]

The slanted writing is free...

U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes

LMAO - Actually the writing is straight in the picture, it's the blue webbing that's slanted. Centering the uppercase block letters between the top/bottom edges also seems to have been a technical challenge in the past on the custom name tapes.

[JC004]

The slanted writing is free...

U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes

LMAO - Actually the writing is straight in the picture, it's the blue webbing that's slanted. Centering the uppercase block letters between the top/bottom edges also seems to have been a technical challenge in the past on the custom name tapes.

'best nametapes I ever got were from Dover AFB.  They carried the CAP tapes, and I ordered nametapes there.  They were straight, and the embroidery was nice and thick - didn't look like it was done with a white crayon.  Wish I had ordered more...

[RogueLeader]

If you are tire of dealing with Vanguard and are tired of dealing with them, sign my petition to NHQ to get then to change.  The link is:
http://captalk.net/index.php?topic=1950.0

[JC004]

If you are tire of dealing with Vanguard and are tired of dealing with them, sign my petition to NHQ to get then to change.  The link is:
http://captalk.net/index.php?topic=1950.0

Other things I expect to come out of Vanguard...when I forward one of their customer 'service' e-mails to 14 people within 5 minutes, the name of my true love will appear on the screen, I will be granted a wish, and Bill Gates/AOL will cut me a check for every person who receives it.   

[Hawk200]

Other things I expect to come out of Vanguard...when I forward one of their customer 'service' e-mails to 14 people within 5 minutes, the name of my true love will appear on the screen, I will be granted a wish, and Bill Gates/AOL will cut me a check for every person who receives it.   

Only if it doesn't end up int their "Spam" folder   

[Matt]

So, perhaps I've missed something in the grand scheme of things...  Perusing Vanguard's "website" today looking for the handy-dandy green books... found them...  But $6.25 a hit?

Have these always cost this much or is it since the great migration?

But on the plus side... there was an image available.

[JC004]

Other things I expect to come out of Vanguard...when I forward one of their customer 'service' e-mails to 14 people within 5 minutes, the name of my true love will appear on the screen, I will be granted a wish, and Bill Gates/AOL will cut me a check for every person who receives it.   

Only if it doesn't end up int their "Spam" folder   

I wonder if our orders go into their spam filter?   

[Matt]

Other things I expect to come out of Vanguard...when I forward one of their customer 'service' e-mails to 14 people within 5 minutes, the name of my true love will appear on the screen, I will be granted a wish, and Bill Gates/AOL will cut me a check for every person who receives it.   

Only if it doesn't end up int their "Spam" folder   

I wonder if our orders go into their spam filter?   

Wouldn't doubt it...