How to Get Onto a Military Base
When protesters broke into a Washington state naval base in November 2009, Fox News reported the group included people in their 60s and 80s. Members of the group said they cut through multiple fences to get within 50 yards of nuclear warhead storage bunkers, proving that tight security is no guarantee that a military base can't be penetrated. Nabbed by U.S. Marines, the seniors may spend one of their remaining years in jail if they're unable to beat the charges. So if you're looking to get yourself onto a base--at any age--follow certain tips and leave the wire cutters at home.
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Things You'll Need
- Driver's license
- Proof of car insurance
- Proof of car rental
- Passport
- Valid military ID
- Base registration sticker
- Veteran's Administration medical card
- Defense Biometric Identification System card
Instructions
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Ask whomever you're visiting on the military base to give your name to the base security command so you're on the official admissions list when you pull up to the guardhouse. Present these credentials after submitting your name: any form of identification, especially a Veterans Administration medical card or military ID proving you're a retired member of the military, a passport, or a valid driver's license. Expect to present proof of auto insurance and/or paperwork you received if you rented your vehicle if you don't have an official base registration sticker issued to those living on the campus.
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Be prepared to tell the checkpoint guard how long you plan to visit the base and expect your car to be swept (under the vehicle's carriage) with a mirror or metal detection device, as required by many bases on the lookout for suspicious goods or materials. Additionally, if the base is on alert, you may also be asked to pop the trunk. You may also be asled for permission to search luggage and purses. Place the pass you're issued on your windshield and pull the vehicle to the side while your host is notified of your arrival.
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Apply for a windshield registration sticker if you are moving onto a base so you can drive that vehicle through security checkpoints with relatively little problem--as long as you are alone. Complete an application for the base permit to verify your residency. Expect to be waved through by guards once they recognize you. Anticipate being detained if others are in the car, even if you're recognized.
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Prepare to submit your pre-issued Defense Biometric Identification System card into a scanner if the base you're visiting has this new system. Apply for the card if you're still in the military service, have retired with base privileges, or if you hold a government clearance. Don't assume the card is an automatic "in," however, since bases under high alert regularly ask for additional identification before admitting anyone.
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