Many veterans and their families from across Long Island have come to depend on the Mitchel Field Commissary as a source for discounted groceries and other items. But they've been forced to shop elsewhere since it closed at the beginning of July.

The building is operated by a wing of the Department of Defense. They say the closure is "necessary" as they evaluate a "safety concern."

Meanwhile, many veterans are using the nearby Veterans Food Pantry at NUMC. Workers there say they've seen double the amount of people since the commissary closed.

Rep. Anthony D'Esposito and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman were among the elected officials who joined with veterans on Wednesday, calling for action to be taken to open the commissary's doors once again.