Straight Talk: Entry Control Procedures

  • Published
  • By Col. Stacy L. Yike
  • 66th Air Base Group commander
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Q: On July 19, around 12:30 p.m. a contractor guard spent an inordinate amount of time with one vehicle. It appeared from his hand gestures and animation that it was not business, but a social discussion. Meanwhile, six or seven cars backed up at the gate. Although this is one instance, increased frequency of this similar type of situation has been observed at various times of day. Also, some of the guards spend an extended amount of time trying to relay driving directions to a driver while the traffic continues to back-up.

A: I'm sure you have noticed our defenders and contract guards are spending more time with each vehicle entering this installation. Chit-chat is not acceptable with cars waiting, and I know it is frustrating to pull up behind a car asking for directions, but I believe what is most noticeable recently is an emphasis on proper gate procedures. Please see Capt. Petren's article, which discusses entry control procedures.