Restrictions on travel to Mexico tighten for Vance military

Published Sept. 23, 2009

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Due to increased risk of violence along the U.S.-Mexico border and border towns, the 71st Flying Training Wing commander now prohibits all military members at Vance AFB, Okla., from traveling to or through portions of Mexico located within 50 miles of the border.

In a letter signed Sept. 10, the commander, Col. Chris Nowland, prohibited travel to the communities of Tijuana, Nogales, Cuidad Juarez, Nuevo Loredo, Acuna, Piedras Negras, Reynosa, Matamoras, Las Palomas, Agua Prieta, Sasabe, Naco, Sonoyta and anywhere in the state of Chihuahua.

The prohibition affects all active duty members, reservists and guardsmen in Title 10 status assigned or attached to the 71st FTW or Vance AFB tenant units.

All other 71st FTW personnel, including guardsmen in Title 32 status, Department of Defense civilian employees, contractors and all family members, are discouraged from travelling in the prohibited areas.

Only the commander can make exceptions to the prohibition. For information on the travel prohibition and steps to obtain exceptions, contact the Wing Antiterrorism officer, 213-7230.