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Library > Fact Sheets > Security
SECURITY
Posted 8/15/2011
Printable Fact Sheet
Base Access:
Q: I am writing in regards to the Aviano policy of restricting relatives from being escorted onto Aviano AB. While I appreciate enhanced force protection, this policy seems to have little aforethought and does not enhance security, but only inconveniences Airmen and retirees visiting the base. I thank you for your time in listening.
A: Non-US citizens may indeed gain access to Aviano AB by using the following procedure: The military escort must contact the Large Vehicle Inspection Station gate (DSN 632-7896) to receive the entry authorization list (EAL) template. The escort must fill out all personal information for him/herself and the guest on the EAL and provide, in detail, a full request and explanation. The EAL requires squadron commander signature, but since you are not stationed here, the SFS personnel at the LVIS gate will route your request to the 31 MSG/Command Section. The EAL will then be routed through the US and Italian Air Force security forces for background checks, and the Italian Air Force will ultimately approve or deny the request. This request process may take over a week for coordination so please consider this when you make your request. After Italian authorities finish the background check, if approved, you will be contacted to pick up the pass.
I realize this process is not a convenient one, but it is a necessary security measure and I hope you understand that protecting our Airmen and their families, as well as our mission-critical assets around the base, is high on my priority list. For more information, contact the Large Vehicle Inspection Station (LVIS) at DSN 632-7896.
Off-base photography of Aviano operations
Q: While I understand certain things are out of Security Forces' control, I do have to bring up an issue that I have noticed. Since the recent events with Libya and Aviano being all over the news, I have noticed greater traffic outside the base of photographers taking pictures of the base and the flightline. I was always told to report this in the past, yet, during this time, when it worries me more and I do report it, I am told that it is "out of their hands" or "the Italians are taking care of it" yet I have not seen any Italians enforcing the rules of photography of the base. I feel like this could potentially put military and families in danger yet nothing is being done. Am I just over reacting? Thank you for your time!
A: Thank you for bringing your concern to my attention. With the recent increase in activity at Aviano Air Base, there has also come a drastic increase in aviation enthusiasts (in the form of tail spotters) and media alike. When Security Forces personnel are notified of suspicious activities, to include off-base photography directed toward U.S. personnel or Aviano Air Base, the Emergency Control Center immediately creates a report. This report is used to notify appropriate authorities, to include host nation law enforcement. Every notification is carefully considered and reported to up the chain of command in order to best assist in force protection planning.
During the last couple weeks, our Security Forces have been collaborating closely with host nation authorities who have been actively engaged to increase their patrols and presence. In concert with local authorities, we continually assess the potential threat posed to the base by the persons you and others have identified. If there is an actual threat, it will be dealt with accordingly by the proper authorities.
I sincerely appreciate you speaking up, and I ask you to please continue reporting suspicious activities through our Eagle Eyes program at 0434-30-EYES (3937). We rely on every member of Team Aviano to help keep the installation safe and secure.
Tailspotters
Q: Often while driving between the flight line area and Areas 1 and 2 on the AP Highway, I notice individuals directly across from the flight line near the off limits area observing our aircraft and flight line operations. This seems to be a daily occurrence. Quite frequently, these individuals have binoculars; sometimes they have a notebook or backpack with them. Sometimes it seems as if they are making an attempt to hide themselves behind shrubbery and trees, other times they are out in the open. When I see this, I call the law enforcement desk and give them a description; however, later in the day there will be different individuals in the same area. I was just wondering if there is any way that this can be prevented.
A: Like operations in the U.S., suspicious activity that occurs off base must be coordinated with civil law enforcement agencies. In our case, observations made outside the base are coordinated between the 31st Security Forces Squadron and the base Caribinieri, who in turn respond to the situation. It is truly a joint U.S.-Italian effort and we do our best to discriminate between friendly civilian spectators who are in awe of our Air Power and those who may wish to do harm to our personnel and resources.
Security forces, both U.S. and Italian, are constantly patrolling, but cannot be at all places all the time. They need force multipliers such as yourself and the rest of our team making us aware of suspicious activity. Keep on being vigilant and I encourage others to follow your example in keeping our team safe.
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