#Middlebury #MilitaryInstallations #Access
VETERANS POST
By Freddy Groves
The Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense have made some changes that will make it easier for veterans and their caregivers to get into various installations. Whether it’s for medical appointments, shopping or any other reason, the changes will allow both veteran and caregiver to be electronically verified.
Ideally you’ll have a VA health card (the VHIC). If not, you can enroll for access by using a REAL ID driver’s license or an identification card if you don’t drive. Beginning November 2024, those without a VHIC (or an eligible caregiver) weren’t required to present a service connected disability letter, Form H623A (the VA Health Eligibility Center form) or a caregiver patronage letter to enroll for access.
Whether you need access to the commissary, movie theater, post exchange or anywhere else, you’ll need to set up your enrollment at the visitor center the first time you go to an installation. Specifically the steps are as follows:
- Present your ID.
- Have a criminal and terrorism check done.
- Have your purpose for going to the installation verified. For example, if you have a medical appointment, be prepared to show proof of that appointment.
Once you’re enrolled, you’ll only need to show your original identification at the gate, whether it was a REAL ID or VHIC. You’ll be signed up for one to three years. If, however, your ID or VHIC expires and you get a new one, you’ll need to start over and enroll again.
For nonmedical use (exchange, commissary, theater, etc.), it gets sticky. Those places aren’t set up to electronically verify eligibility for a caregiver without a VHIC. You’ll need to continue to provide official documentation.
If you need more information, call the Veterans Benefits Administration National Call Center at 800-827-1000. Military OneSource (800-342-9647, www.militaryonesource.mil) can also offer help on all types of veterans’ issues.
© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
