TOP STORY >> Program eases base access, emphasizes accountability

 Military ID cardholders may now escort friends and family members riding in their vehicle onto base as part of the base’s Trusted Traveler program.

The Trusted Traveler program allows 19th Security Forces Squadron gate guards to inspect one valid military ID card per vehicle and trust the “traveler” to vouch the rest of the vehicle occupants in that same vehicle. 

“The ‘Trusted Traveler’ program allows for decreased vehicle processing times at base gates while still meeting installation security requirements,” Jeffery Bardsley, 19th SFS plans and programs chief, said. “Visitors are still required to have a pass to get onto base and sponsors are still responsible for the actions of the people they escort to our base.”

Guests must still complete identity and background checks at the Vandenberg Gate visitors center and military affiliated members are accountable to ensure guests possess valid installation access credentials.

The program eases the burden of base access during high traffic hours while maintaining a constant state of security vigilance, according to the 19th SFS commander.

“Our No. 1 priority as Defenders is the safety of the men and women of Little Rock Air Force Base. Our gate guards still reserve the right to ask all vehicle occupants to show I.D. cards and visitor passes during random security checks,” Maj. Gregory Bodenstein said. “The effectiveness of this program hinges on everyone continuing to follow the rules of base access.  As Defenders continue to focus on keeping the base secure, we trust those with base access to remain compliant with proper visitor access procedures.”

Base security forces will conduct random 100-percent I.D. checks of all vehicle occupants and pedestrians to ensure compliance with base access requirements. The program may be suspended to meet force protection condition changes. Finally, during the hours of 10 p.m. - 6 a.m. 100-percent I.D. checks will continue.

Those with questions about the program can call 987-6294.

(Courtesy of 19th Security Forces Squadron)