Veterans are accustomed to living on-base. After a lifetime of ingrained military traditions, it can be challenging to revert to a civilian lifestyle. Many veterans reminisce about their time at a military facility and the relationships they cultivated.
Many military bases still allow veterans access to some on-site facilities. In 2019, the Department of Defense signed the National Defense Authorization Act, which allowed veterans with service-connected disabilities and those enrolled in the Department of Veteran’s affairs caregiver program access to military installations.
Entering a Military Base
Minor variances aside, most bases follow the same entry rules. Veterans need a Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) from their local VA office. The procedure to acquire a Veterans Health Identification Card is simple, usually requiring taking a photograph and waiting a few weeks for your ID to arrive via mail.
Veterans can take their VHIC, driver’s license or passport, and a valid state ID to the military installation. Most bases have a pass office outside the base premises. The office will conduct a quick on-spot background check before letting you through.
If the base you’re visiting doesn’t have a pass office outside the installation walls, we recommend calling and asking beforehand.
According to the National Defense Authorization Act, veterans must submit to a background check for every new base they visit and re-register every three years.
Veteran’s Access to On-base Facilities
Once veterans enter the base, they have access to all facilities that generate money. These facilities include the Morale, Welfare, and Recreational office, retail shops, and entertainment centers. Aside from the commissary, veterans also can access bowling alleys, movie theatres, military lodging, and the Officer’s Clubs. Veterans also have access to the Department of Defense’s temporary military housing.
However, it is vital to note that some facilities aren’t accessible for veterans. Facilities like fitness centers, libraries, and child care centers are accessible to active military members only.
Veterans can also bring up to five members with them to military installations. The accompanying members must have an established relationship with the veteran, such as a spouse or children.
Accessing Commissaries and Exchanges
Commissaries are grocery stores located on military installations. Commissaries often sell food and household items at lower prices than most grocery shops. Veterans with VHIC cards can access commissaries and avail coupons to save money.
Exchanges are typically larger than commissaries. They resemble department stores, with smaller shops and stores nearby. They also include uniforms, barbershops, dry cleaners, fast food outlets, and other shops. Like commissaries, veterans with VHIC also have access to exchanges.
Alternative Military Lodgings for Veterans
If you’re a veteran looking for an alternative to military housing, crash pads may be an excellent solution for you. If you’re seeking accommodations near Randolph AFB, Freedom TDY Crashpad has you covered. We provide affordable military lodging near Randolph. We are an off-base TDY military housing run by an active-duty couple.
Contact us today to book lodgings for yourself.
