Starting Dec. 1, all visitors to Rock Island Arsenal (RIA), who do not have a Department of Defense identification and are 18 and older, will have to be vetted before being allowed access.
Visitors, contractors, and vendors must complete a Criminal Records background check which will be processed through the FBI's National Crime Information Center Interstate Identification Index (NCIC III). Individuals with certain felony convictions, outstanding wants or warrants, are registered sex offenders and other serious offenses may be denied access.
"This will require providing personal information," said Jonathan Ramsdell, Director of Emergency Services for RIA.
Individuals that lack Department of Defense or Federal identification cards requiring access to the Arsenal will need to supply their full name, any other names previously used, last four numbers of their Social Security number, date of birth, and driver's license or state issued identification card number. The time to complete a background check for one visitor, not including the gathering of personal information, may vary depending on available security staff and the number of visitors requesting access at any one time. Once vetted, visitors will be provided a pass or a credential ranging from one day to one year in length, depending on the purpose and frequency of their visits to Rock Island Arsenal. Children 16 and under are not subject to a background check, but must be accompanied by an adult who has been vetted or who has a Department of Defense or Federal Identification card, according to Arsenal officials.
The Arsenal announced the changes earlier in the year, and is currently accepting applications in advance for the passes. Arsenal officials say those who have already applied should return to the installation ID office to pick up their pass or credential.
The background check is not unique to RIA. The procedure is a Defense Department requirement for all military installations.
"In today's ever-changing and sometimes dangerous environment, the government/military must maximize their security process to protect installation personnel, facilities and property, including visitors, from criminal and terrorist threats," Ramsdell said previously. "It is the responsibility of every Military Commander to ensure the safety and security of their personnel and facilities this ensures accomplishment of their mission. As mentioned, DoD has established access control standards which include identity proofing and vetting to determine the fitness of an individual requesting and/or requiring access to military installations."
While background checks will be required to enter the Arsenal, the recreational and event facilities are still open to the public.
"The recreational and sports facilities offered to the public at RIA will remain open as usual, r a variety of activities including: golf, gymnasium and special events," Ramsdell said. "The only change is citizens 18and older wishing to take advantage of RIA's offerings will be required to undergo the background check and have a pass or credential to enter the Arsenal.
To help reduce access time, RIA security officials recommend visitors stop by the Arsenal or call 309 782-05551 to request a form via email. The form is also available online at the RIA website at http://www.usagria.army.mil/default.aspx. Once the form is complete, it is best to return the form seven to 14 days in advance of the expected visit date. Those who have already submitted forms should be sure to check back with the office to pick up their completed credentials."The Arsenal is still 'open for business' and we are taking these steps to keep safe and secure ALL persons on the installation and to help deter those who shouldn't be on the installation," Ramsdell said. "Hopefully this will allow all workers, contractors, vendors and visitors to feel better about their and their family's safety while on the Arsenal. Additionally, RIA wants to ensure visitors that the required information for the background checks that is provided will always remain secure and only used by installation security personnel."
