Team V encouraged to avoid Lompoc Gate

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Amanda Andrews, a gate guard with Chenega Integrated Systems, performs a vehicle inspection at the Lompoc Gate on Tuesday. Security forces and 30th Space Wing leadership are asking Team V members to avoid using the Lompoc Gate for non-commercial base access, due to increased commercial traffic at the gate. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jonathan Olds)

Published Dec. 23, 2008
By Staff Sgt. Benjamin Rojek
30th Space Wing Public Affairs

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Security forces and 30th Space Wing leadership are asking Team V members to avoid using the Lompoc Gate for non-commercial base access.

Construction work and holiday traffic have caused backups at the Lompoc Gate recently.

"The primary reason for the backup is a 'surge' in base-wide construction (and demolition) projects," said Capt. Timothy Wankowski, the 30th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. "The amount of building materials entering the installation is enormous. As a result, many more commercial and contractor trucks must be searched, and this function is primarily carried out at Lompoc Gate."

Team V members coming to the base are therefore encouraged to use the Santa Maria, Utah and Solvang gates for non-commercial base access, especially between the peak hours of 7 a.m. and noon.

No matter which gate is used, people entering the base can help expedite the process by following a few simple rules.

"It's always appreciated when drivers and passengers have all necessary documents (Common Access Card, ID card, base pass) ready for the sentry upon pulling up to the gate," Captain Wankowski said. "Once a person is at the gate is not the appropriate time to begin digging for needed documents."