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[MADem]

48. They're very open nowadays--they use the whole "circular zone" thing to restrict access.

Anyone with appropriate documentation (or accompanying someone with appropriate documentation) can get in most bases. They aren't going to be able to drive on the flight line or into operational areas, but they'll have no trouble getting around housing and the PX/clubs/movie/library/bowling alley areas.

I've gone on a number of bases with relatives who had nothing more than a non-military picture ID like a driver's license, and didn't have to "sign them in." So long as they came in with me, there was no issue. In fact, I've even brought family members who were unaffiliated with the military to stay at TLA hotel facilities on bases. It's much less onerous these days, 911 notwithstanding. The focus is more on protecting stuff that NEEDS protecting--and stores and golf courses and family housing are not regarded as "high risk" targets. Places where operational equipment like aircraft/weapons are kept, or where classified material is stored, those places get the extra security and they are separated from the social areas of the bases.