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Tell us what you think: Buying your own gear

Ships stationed in Hampton Roads, Va., have become so starved for cash that sailors have taken to buying supplies and equipment with their own money — or they’re just not getting the gear they need to do their jobs — according to a Navy report.

A Navy Investigator General’s report from this spring described one ship, which was not named, with a $1 million supply shortfall.

“Sailors of all ranks, including the supply officer, are buying supplies out of pocket to meet operational and certification requirements,” the report said.

Has your ship had to struggle with too little money from Big Navy? Have you and your shipmates had to dip into your own pockets to buy tools, equipment or supplies the ship needed?

We want to hear about it. Contact reporter Philip Ewing. Your comments could appear in Navy Times.