The Trusted Traveler program is back in action at military bases and installations throughout the continental U.S. and Alaska, as announced by U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).
This initiative had been suspended for a week due to security concerns that arose after two violent incidents.
Program Details and Implementation
Starting January 10, the program allows military personnel and Department of Defense civilian employees with valid identification to escort visitors onto military properties.
However, it’s important to note that the specifics on how the program is implemented will now depend on local installation commanders.
This information was confirmed in a statement to Task & Purpose.
The purpose of the Trusted Traveler program is to streamline gate entry and reduce delays, relying on the trustworthiness of those involved.
The program was halted on January 3, following alarming events in Las Vegas and New Orleans that occurred on New Year’s Day.
Recent Violent Incidents
In the early hours of January 1, chaos erupted in New Orleans when U.S. Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove his truck into a crowd, subsequently opening fire and resulting in 14 deaths before being killed by police.
Shortly after, in Las Vegas, Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger, an active-duty Green Beret, drove a rented Cybertruck to the Trump Hotel, where the vehicle exploded, injuring seven people.
Investigators later uncovered that Livelsberger had meticulously planned the attack and had even used artificial intelligence in his schemes before taking his own life.
Currently, both cases are under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) along with local law enforcement agencies.
Safety Measures and Local Authority
USNORTHCOM indicated that suspending the Trusted Traveler program was a precautionary measure designed to uphold safety and security.
It’s worth noting that the violent incidents occurred in civilian spaces and involved rented vehicles, not on military grounds.
During the suspension, all individuals entering military installations had to undergo rigorous identity checks, random vehicle inspections, and extended security screenings.
Furthermore, local commanders possess the authority to implement additional security measures tailored to their bases, while still complying with the minimum standards of Force Protection Condition.
Source: Taskandpurpose