What's with the long lines at the front gate?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jacob Jimenez
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Have you ever been caught in a long line of cars at the front gate and wondered what is going on?

Starting Feb. 7, JBLM implemented a new entry control system, Automated Installation Entry, which now assists with entry control procedures.

The purpose of the new AIE system is to increase security of all base personnel and visitors by ensuring 100 percent identification verification of anyone attempting to gain entry to the base.

When utilizing the AIE system, drivers entering the base will scan or swipe their military ID cards at a pedestal at the gate. As a driver scans their ID, a gate guard will verify their photo and identification credentials before granting or denying them entry onto the installation.

To swipe their military ID, drivers will swipe the long narrow barcode located on the back of the ID card. The option to scan instead of swiping can only be used by common access card holders. Patrons with CAC IDs can scan their card by touching the gold colored chip to the chip reader.

AIE will only process military IDs that have been registered in the AIE system. Base patrons must have their military ID cards registered to utilize the system.

Military ID card holders can register their ID with AIE system at the visitor center. Once a military ID card is registered, it will remain in the AIE system until the card expires or a new card is issued.

Using the AIE system, registered military ID card holders are allowed to sponsor passengers in their vehicle onto the base. Drivers sponsoring other passengers accept responsibility for the behavior and conduct of their guests while visiting the installation. This privilege is called 'Trusted Traveler' and can be suspended during heightened force protection conditions, at the discretion of the installation commander or security forces personnel. More stringent security measures, such as vehicle inspections and secondary ID checks will still be applied at random.

Individuals with retiree ID cards issued prior to 2010 cannot be registered in the new AIE system and must get a replacement ID from the military ID card facility. For more information about scheduling an appointment, call 253-967-5065.

For more information about the AIE system, go to:
www.lewis-mcchord.army.mil/des/le_automated_access.htm.