Veterans ID Card Now Accepted for Base Access
In a move aimed at honoring veterans and providing them with greater access to military facilities, the Department of Defense has announced that veterans ID cards will now be accepted for base access. This new policy, which goes into effect immediately, will allow veterans to visit military installations and access various services and amenities.
The decision to accept veterans ID cards for base access comes after years of advocacy from veterans’ organizations and lawmakers who have argued that those who have served in the military should have the same privileges as active duty service members. Previously, veterans without a current military ID card had limited access to military bases, often requiring them to go through a lengthy process to obtain a visitor pass.
“With the new policy, veterans will no longer have to jump through hoops to visit their local military installations,” said Secretary of Defense Mark Esper. “We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude for their service, and this is just one small way we can show our appreciation.”
The veterans ID card, also known as the veterans’ general identification card (VGIC), is available to all honorably discharged veterans who have served in the armed forces. It includes a photo of the veteran, their name, branch of service, and dates of service. The card is issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs and is used to verify a veteran’s status for various benefits and services.
Under the new policy, veterans will be able to present their veterans ID card at the entrance to a military installation to gain access. They will be subject to the same security protocols as other visitors, including vehicle searches and ID checks. Once on base, veterans will be able to visit the exchange, commissary, and other facilities open to the public.
The decision to accept veterans ID cards for base access has been met with widespread praise from veterans and their advocates. Many have long argued that veterans should be able to access the same services and benefits as active duty service members, given their sacrifices and contributions to the country.
“This is a long overdue recognition of the service and sacrifices of our veterans,” said John Rowland, a retired Navy veteran. “I’m glad to see that the Department of Defense is finally acknowledging the importance of supporting our veterans in this way.”
In addition to providing veterans with greater access to military facilities, the new policy is also expected to have economic benefits for military installations. With more veterans able to visit and shop on base, there is likely to be an increase in revenue for base exchanges and other facilities.
“Allowing veterans to use their ID cards for base access is a win-win situation for everyone involved,” said Karen Smith, a spokesperson for the Defense Commissary Agency. “Not only does it give veterans the opportunity to access the resources and services they deserve, but it also helps to support the military community as a whole.”
For veterans who have long felt excluded from the military community, the new policy represents a welcome change. Many veterans have expressed their excitement at being able to visit their local bases and reconnect with their military roots.
“I can’t wait to use my veterans ID card to visit the base where I served,” said Robert Johnson, an Army veteran. “It’s been years since I’ve been back, and I’m looking forward to seeing old friends and reliving some memories.”
Overall, the decision to accept veterans ID cards for base access is a positive step towards recognizing and honoring the contributions of veterans. By granting them greater access to military facilities, the Department of Defense is showing its appreciation for the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the armed forces.
