Edwards prepares to cease use of vehicle decals

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stacy Sanchez
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Edwards is taking the initiative to stop registering private vehicles on base and to eliminate using base vehicle decals, which could go into effect as early as
this month. 

Since Sept. 11, 2001, security forces for military installations are required to do a 100-percent identification check on the driver who enters the installation. Identification checks greatly reduces the need for base vehicles decals since the decals were the primary method to enter the base. 

"Base vehicle decals have also become a force protection vulnerability and Edwards wants to reduce the risk of decals being counterfeited or being moved from one car to another," said Stephen Gerteis, 95th Security Forces Squadron chief
of plans and programs.

Once the initiative to eliminate window decals takes effect, Department of Defense Identification cards will be the primary proof of authorization to enter Air Force installations, Mr. Gerteis said. Gate sentries will utilize, but are not limited to, driver's license, insurance and registration for ID verification. 

"Individuals who enter the installation will still have to comply with requirements for insurance, state registrations and safety inspections, Mr. Gerteis said. "Security Forces will check for compliance of these requirements randomly at the installation gates and during traffic enforcements. Motorcycle operators will still need to comply with base safety standards and have required training before being allowed to ride on the installation." 

After checking ID cards, Mr. Gerteis said, military gate sentries will render salutes to officers as appropriate when force protection permits. 

The same procedures will continue for visitors wishing to access the base, said Bill Zeigler, 95th SFS chief of pass and registration. 

"We are recommending that vehicle owners remove decals from their vehicle when the change goes into effect," Mr. Gerteis said. "This will avoid advertising DoD affiliation while off-base that might be of interest to potential terrorist, criminals, or foreign intelligence operatives." 

After decal removal, Edwards will still have to comply with the entry requirements of other installations. 

A visitors pass may be required for some individuals to get on base, Mr. Gerteis said.
"Drivers who visit other bases may want to consider registering their vehicle at that installation, if allowed to do so."