MARIETTA, Ga. — A Cobb County store with nearly 70 years of history in the community is closing its doors. Hodge Army Navy opened back in 1955.
James Zimmerman is one of its oldest customers.
“My dad brought me the first time when I was 10 years old. That was 52 years ago," said Zimmerman.
The longtime customer said the store has sparked a passion in him that he still cherishes today.
“Coming in with dad as a little boy, I ran around and was amazed at what I called treasures. Dad bought me a surplus cantina belt that everyone in the family says is what started me collecting," said Zimmerman.
The Hodge Army Navy staff said the store holds 1 million items, including military gear, clothing, antiques and toys.
One of their most popular items is something very practical and cheap.
“Oddly enough, paracords and P-38s get asked about all the time. P-38s, I knew you were gonna ask that. They are little can openers that people put on their dog tags or their key chains. I get asked that all the time, and we always have them in stock," said store employee Jeff Mangan.
On Sunday, the plan is to close up Hodge’s for good. Workers said they can no longer compete with online competitors and hope the final days of this community staple will draw out the faithful and the curious who are interested in picking up that rare item for the last time.
“Hodges has always advertised a million plus one items and that’s what we’re shooting for. We’re shooting to get all million and one items out of here. It’s a need-to-go basis," said Mark Lubert of Lott's Treasures Estate Sales.