The Department of Defense and U.S. Northern Command have directed additional force protection measures at military bases across NORTHCOM, which has caused some noticeable backups at Tinker Air Force Base gates.
“Tinker has been directed to implement some Force Protection measures as random anti-terrorist measures,” said Senior Master Sgt. Brian Helems, 72nd Security Forces Operations superintendent.
These security measures include randomly suspending the Trusted Traveler Program at Tinker, increasing random searches of vehicles that come through the installation gates, and inspecting smaller commercial vehicles that come through the installations entry control points.
The time it takes for Airmen to implement these extra security measures that keep the base population safe have caused some delays at various gates throughout the day. However, Helems said there are steps members of the Tinker community can take to reduce wait times.
First and foremost, everyone in the vehicle should have their photo ID ready, whether they’re DOD employees or not. If someone knows they forgot their ID or common access card at home, they shouldn’t try to see if Security Forces will let them through anyway, they should go home and get it. Helems also suggested trying to vary the times Tinker employees go through the gate.
“Our busiest time of day is from 6:30-7:30 a.m., so we have asked different squadrons and agencies on base to consider adjusting their duty hours to avoid overwhelming the gates,” Helems said. “Varying times of reporting will definitely help with the traffic.”
It’s also suggested to use a different gate to enter Tinker. Helems said the gates with the least amount of traffic are the Vance and Gott Gates. It’s also being recommended that personnel try to vary their departure times by 10-15 minutes, to avoid peak morning hours for the time being.
Overall, understanding is asked for while everyone deals with these security implementations.
“We have a job to secure the installation, resources and personnel, and in that sometimes people are inconvenienced and have to wait longer. The safety of our Team Tinker personnel, and the security of the installation are our priority. We cannot sacrifice security for convenience. We have to try to meet in the middle.”
Helems said he understands the frustration of extended wait times, but requests that any complaints about backups at gates be directed to him and not the Airmen on duty at the gates. Helems can be reached at 734-6741.