TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Tinker is federal property and requires authorization to enter. Leadership wants those who would contemplate running the gate to get this message: Don’t do it!
According to the 72nd Security Forces Squadron they have seen a rise in the number of incidents where people have “run the gate” while trying to access the base. These incidents are taken seriously due to security concerns and initiate immediate responses from 72nd SFS, as they put property and lives at risk.
“People who live and work on Tinker AFB have forgotten the first and most important step of showing their ID card when they reach the gate,” Lt. Col. Keith Quick, 72nd SFS commander said. “In several of these cases, the driver admitted to being distracted and just plain ‘forgot’ they were supposed to stop and show their ID. Bottom line, this is a crime. It is unlawful to enter a military installation without showing proper ID, and it is both serious and dangerous.”
In this time of continued vigilance the defenders from the 72nd SFS may not be able to immediately differentiate between an inattentive driver and someone with hostile intent. Each entry gate has robust, access denial measures in place which can be actuated within seconds to prevent access. The systems can not only damage or total a vehicle, but also have the potential to injure those in the vehicle or innocent drivers who might inadvertently be caught during the barrier actuation.
“Each person who works, lives, or conducts business on Tinker AFB must remember security is everyone’s responsibility, and a big part of that is showing your ID at the gates to ensure we only allow access to authorized personnel,” Lt. Colonel Quick said. “An immediate Security Forces response to stop the gate-runner and neutralize the threat, based on the scenario, includes the use of force by our defenders, up to and including the use of deadly force.”
There are far-reaching consequences for anyone who trespasses on federal property, in addition to being arrested. The command takes a firm stand on intentional gate-runners who might face consequences such as a federal citation, administrative action from their chain of command, and depending on the severity of the situation, possible debarment from the installation and the loss of their job.
Security Forces are also placed at risk as a speeding vehicle passing through the gate could potentially strike the posted defender. This is a major concern, according to Lt. Colonel Quick.
Another thing to consider is if your insurance company would pay vehicle and property damage or personal injury costs associated with a gate-runner situation.
“Bottom line is every member of Team Tinker from day one knows and understands the need to stop and show their ID,” Lt. Colonel Quick stressed. “Remember, installation security is everyone’s responsibility, so take the time to slow down as you approach the base and show your ID. Or, you may be the next one wearing some shiny new bracelets.”