Q: I would like to voice a concern regarding random vehicles searches for base entry. I am a resident of Hill AFB and am not a civilian employee or active-duty service member. I truly understand and appreciate the efforts and intent of the procedures; however, I want to know if there is a way to execute the policy without overburdening the same unlucky, random vehicle. This embarrassing, mandatory violation of privacy can, after an individual is selected multiple times over a short period of time, seem more arbitrary and discriminatory than random. Again, I understand the world we live mandates certain precautions, but there is always room for improvement.

A: Thanks for the opportunity to clarify the random installation entry/exit vehicle check process. Per Air Force Instruction 31-101, Integrated Defense, in order to keep the installation safe and secure, installation commanders may direct or establish procedures for installation entry point checks of randomly selected vehicles entering or leaving an installation under their jurisdiction, whether the owner or operator is military or civilian. A computer program is used to randomly determine the time, date, location and vehicle gap for inspections. The product of this program is reviewed by the base legal office and approved by the 75th Mission Support Group commander before being implemented by the 75th Security Forces Squadron at the base entry points. The process is truly random and subject to several levels of oversight. The 75th SFS Police Services section is available to discuss this and other Hill AFB law enforcement and security policies. They may be contacted at 801-777-7133.