Biometric identification system will increase security at Vance

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Tyler Gross
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla.-- --  Staring in January 2011, Airmen at Vance AFB will join the majority of Airmen worldwide when they register in the new Defense Biometric Identification System.

The system, which is being implemented Air Force wide, allows security forces to check the identity and background of everyone attempting to gain access to the base. The system here will be standardized with bases across the Central time zone.

Once the system is in place everyone driving through the gate will be required to have a background check. All military personnel, family members over the age of 16 and government civilians will register their common access cards with the 71st Security Forces Squadron.

Registering will take approximately two minutes. Contractors will undergo a registration process that lasts about 10 minutes and will receive cards allowing them access to the base.

Visitors to the base will undergo a background check prior to accessing base facilities. This can take up to 72 hours, but can also be completed prior to the visitors' arrival. Visitors will be able to receive long term passes after the background check. Frequent visitors will be able to receive passes that last up to a year.

To simplify this process, security forces will be taking registration devices to squadrons starting in January. "We are trying to make this as painless and simple as possible," said Staff Sgt. Curtis Hames, 71st SFS. "The registration is a simple two minute process and we will work with the squadrons to ensure the registration fits with their schedule."

According to Sergeant Hames, the new system will increase security while being unnoticeable once in place. Gate traffic will remain the same and aside from a two-minute registration the average Airman will never even know DBIDS is there.

For further information, contact 213-5522.