Mandatory registration required for new ID process

  • Published
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  A change in installation security procedures comes to the JB MDL gates in the form of a new identification system, complete with barcode and biometric technology. Registration in this system has been mandated by the Joint Base Commander and will be enforced starting Jan.1.

The new Defense Biometric Identification System, known as DBIDS, is a Department of Defense identity-authentication and force-protection tool, designed to aid security personnel in determining who has authorized access to the installation.

"DBIDS allows a more secure safeguarding of personnel, assets and base access," said John Rohn, DBIDS program manager.

Installation entry controllers will use a hand-held device to scan the barcode on identification cards of individuals requesting access to the installation. The scanner is consistently linked to and updated by a DoD database.

The database receives frequent updates on changes to personnel and credential status, law enforcement warrants, lost and stolen ID cards and Red Cross alerts. The system also registers individual fingerprints for heightened security. This process makes it very difficult to use fake, forged or stolen ID cards to gain access to the installation.

The system uses the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System to verify the identity of service members, dependants, retirees and civilian personnel.

"DBIDS will allow entry controllers to develop a standard, interoperable network," Rohn explained. "DBIDS is quick and efficient and should not slow down base entry. The handheld scanner provides the guard feedback in seconds."

DBIDS will be integrated into day-to-day operations and will become mandatory for all JB MDL members by 31 December 2010.

"It is essential to our security operations that all JB MDL members register with the new DBIDS system," said Maj. David Haigh, 87th SFS operations officer. "This system offers capabilities that allow us to maintain the safety and well-being of our community more than ever before. It aids law enforcement officials in continuing to protect our installation as it grows and develops as a joint base."

Only 20 percent of the JB MDL community is currently registered with the system.

Individuals can visit the McGuire Welcome Center any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., the Fort Dix Welcome Center from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Friday, or Military Personnel Element from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday - Friday. Individuals will need their military ID to enroll. Retirees with an ID card issued prior to October 1993 must go to Military Personnel  Section to be issued the current retiree ID card.

The DBIDS system emerged as a result of the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, which establishes uniform standards for issuing government-identity credentials. The DBIDS system is the Air Force's system of choice to comply with the directives established for installation access control, Rohn explained.

JB MDL members will have access to several other installations utilizing the same DBIDS server. These include: Eglin Air Force Base, F.E. Warren AFB, Hurlburt Field, Kirtland AFB, Laughlin AFB, Luke AFB, Malmstrom AFB, Lackland AFB, Randolph AFB, Joint Base San Antonio, Minot AFB, Scott AFB, Sheppard AFB, Tinker AFB, Tyndall AFB, Whiteman AFB and Red River Army Depot.

Contact John Rohn, DBIDS program manager, at 609-754-3003 for more information