As a veteran, can I go back and visit Ft Bliss?

2015-03-29T08:07:52-04:00

I was stationed at Ft. Bliss back in the late 80s and would love to go back and visit the base. Can I as a civilian do that? Are there special rules and considerations? I appreciate any information anyone stationed there could give.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 8:52 AM

2015-03-29T08:52:53-04:00

I was stationed at Bliss for three years and just recently PCSd to Fort Stewart. You can get on Fort Bliss with just your drivers license, there is no requirement for a visitors pass. At least there wasn't and I left about six months ago. I know that they specified only certain gates that civilians are allowed to use. You can probably find some more info on their webpage.

https://www.bliss.army.mil/

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Mar 29 at 2015 9:15 AM

2015-03-29T09:15:59-04:00

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member,

Rules for getting on Army Bases have changed. If you do not have a Department of Defense CAC Card (ID....active duty, reserve, retired, dependent, or civilian employee) you will have to get a visitor pass. You will need a valid ID (eg. drivers license). They will conduct a background check on you (should take 15-20 minutes depending on the amount of people trying to get on base). Some bases have gone to an online option for applying for your pass in advance (so it will be ready when you show up, thus avoiding a potential long wait). Regardless, I recommend your call the Post MP/Police Desk and ask in advance to make sure there are no hiccups when you get there.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Mar 29 at 2015 9:36 AM

2015-03-29T09:36:18-04:00

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member,

Here is a direct quote from the Bliss Website reference Access...

https://www.bliss.army.mil/gateinfo.html

"These permanent measures maintain the commanding general’s number one priority of ensuring the safety and security to Fort Bliss and its employees, residents and visitors, while simultaneously providing the greater El Paso community the opportunity to enjoy and use our great amenities.

All vehicles and occupants entering Fort Bliss are subject to random searches and inspections - as has always been the standard - and all non-DoD persons can expect to obtain a visitor’s pass at certain gates. Travelers should plan their time accordingly as access times to Fort Bliss might be increased following these enduring security measure enhancements."

Call in Advance, they might have good pointers for good times to enter to avoid the rush, what gates to come through etc...

Enjoy your trip.

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Mar 29 at 2015 10:59 AM

2015-03-29T10:59:55-04:00

you are a veteran and a taxpayer....you can do whatever you want

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 11:35 AM

2015-03-29T11:35:18-04:00

You will not recognize the place. I was here for the Sergeants Major Academy 2008-2009, and when I came back last year I was lost. The facilities on this post are amazing

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Mar 29 at 2015 2:16 PM

2015-03-29T14:16:56-04:00

Lisa, what's your VA disability rating? 100% disabled vets get Mil ID cards, and are eligible for PX/BX/EX/Commissary privileges...

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 10:06 PM

2015-03-29T22:06:20-04:00

This is why RP roacks! Thank you Gentlemen for your responses!

Response by PFC Mike Mcdermott made Mar 30 at 2015 8:47 AM

2015-03-30T08:47:41-04:00

Sure! Theyll throw in an mre if you're hungry too!

Response by SPC Tony Montenegro made Aug 16 at 2016 1:00 PM

2016-08-16T13:00:44-04:00

I have a verteran ID card can I go on base without a visitors pass